How to Preserve a Hermit Crab

Land hermit crabs make great pets. They are clean, easy to care for, and are relatively inexpensive when compared to other pets. Hermit crabs are odorless and hypo-allergenic which makes them great pets for people with allergies. On average, hermit crabs live for only a few years, but some have been known to live up to 15 years in captivity. They require a bit more care than generally assumed, but with the right equipment and knowledge, the results will be very rewarding.

Things You'll Need

  • Housing
  • Sand
  • Food
  • Water
  • Shallow dishes
  • Shells
  • Climbing toys
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Instructions

  1. Preserving a Hermit Crab

    • 1

      Purchase a cage for your hermit crab that allows sufficient room for the crab, food and water dishes, extra shells, and climbing toys. Most pet stores sell special cages designed for them, but even an inexpensive, 10-gallon glass aquarium will provide ample room for the crab and all the supplies. Clean play sand makes a perfect substrate to fill the bottom of the cage since it will allow the crab to bury itself when needed. Always strain the sand when it looks like it needs to be cleaned. Place a small sponge in a shallow dish of water to keep the tank moist and humid.

    • 2
      Hermit crabs eat a variety of fresh food

      Supply your crab with fresh foods and water. Hermit crabs require a diet of calcium, carotene, and antioxidants, much like humans. A crab that is carotene-deficient will fade in color from bright pink or orange to gray. Hermit crabs are omnivores and will eat a variety of fresh or dried fruit, clean vegetables, meat and fish, tree bark or decaying wood. Hermit crabs also require fresh drinking water. Pet stores sell commercial crab food, but it isn't necessary. Any small, shallow dish will work perfectly for food and water.

    • 3

      Fill your crab cage with a handful of shells in different sizes. A shell keeps a crab protected and moist, and extra shells are needed to allow the crab to grow. A perfect shell has no holes, fits snugly, and allows the crab to withdraw inside completely. Hermit crabs prefer shells that look like the one they already inhabit without regard to color or condition. Always boil the shells for five minutes, then allow to cool before introducing them into the cage.

    • 4

      Purchase multiple objects that are safe for your crab. Hermit crabs love to climb. It's important to find things they can hide under, as well. Man-made "hermie-huts" make perfect hiding spots during the day and can be bought in most pet stores. Hermit crabs also enjoy plastic plants, pieces of driftwood, clay flower pots, and man-made half logs.