Hermit Crab Pets

Hermit Crab Pets logo
Feeding mushrooms to hermit crabs

Can Hermit Crabs Eat Mushrooms Plus 21 More Foods They Will Love

If you are a hermit crab owner, you are probably wondering what foods you can feed your pet. While hermit crabs are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, not all foods are safe for them. In this article, we will explore whether hermit crabs can eat mushrooms and other foods they will love.

Hermit crabs are omnivores and scavengers. They need a wide balanced diet that includes both plant and animal-based foods. While commercial hermit crab food is available, it is always a good idea to supplement it with fresh foods to provide variety and nutrition.

In this article, we will answer the question “Can hermit crabs eat mushrooms?” and provide a list of 21 other foods that your hermit crab will love.

Table of Contents

Introduction

– What Do Hermit Crabs Eat?

– Can Hermit Crabs Eat Mushrooms?

– 21 More Foods Hermit Crabs Love

– FAQs 

What Do Hermit Crabs Eat?

Hermit crabs are omnivorous and eat a variety of foods in the wild. They eat both plants and animals, including algae, fruit, seeds, insects, and decaying organic matter. In captivity, hermit crabs require a varied diet that includes both protein and vegetables.

Commercial hermit crab food is a good source of nutrition, but it is always a good idea to supplement it with fresh foods. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like cooked meat, boiled eggs, and fish are great choices for hermit crabs.

Can Hermit Crabs Eat Mushrooms?

Yes, hermit crabs can eat the types of mushrooms that people can eat. It is essential to check that the mushroom is non-toxic before offering it to your pet. Examples of mushrooms you can feed to your hermit crabs: portobello, shitake, button, white.

Mushrooms can grow in the wild where hermit crabs live, and because they are omnivores and scavengers, most will try mushrooms. 

Note: mushrooms do mold quickly in hermit crab habitats due to the humidity and higher temperature, so make sure to remove any uneaten mushroom within 24 hours.

Do Hermit Crabs LIKE Mushrooms?

In my experience, my hermit crabs DO NOT like mushrooms! I put mushroom in, they ignore it completely. It may be because my hermit crabs are spoiled; I try to eat organic and healthy and feed them tiny morsels of what I eat. Each day they eat different fruits, vegetables, meats plus I supplement their food with crushed almonds, shredded coconut, oats and popcorn on occasion. So when I put in mushroom, my guess is they look at it like a 7 year old would… “ewww you want me to eat THAT”? ha hah ahaha

Do YOUR hermit crabs LIKE to eat mushrooms?

21 More Foods Hermit Crabs Love

1. Carrots – Hermit crabs love carrots for their sweetness and crunchy texture.

2. Apples – Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C for hermit crabs.

3. Bananas – Bananas are rich in potassium and easy for hermit crabs to digest.

4. Spinach – Spinach is a great source of iron and other essential nutrients.

5. Broccoli – Broccoli is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and other nutrients.

6. Green Beans – Green beans are a low-calorie vegetable that is easy to digest for hermit crabs.

7. Grapes – Grapes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins for hermit crabs.

8. Strawberries – Strawberries are a sweet and nutritious treat for hermit crabs. Dried strawberry is better than fresh, as fresh strawberry is very quick to mold in a hermit crab habitat.

9. Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A and fiber for hermit crabs.

10. Corn – Corn is an excellent source of fiber and vitamins for hermit crabs.

11. Peas – Peas are a good source of protein and fiber for hermit crabs.

12. Watermelon – Watermelon is a hydrating fruit and hermit crabs usually love it as a treat.

13. Blueberries – Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants and vitamins for hermit crabs.

14. Mangoes – Mangoes are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, and other essential nutrients for hermit crabs.

15. Algae – Algae is a great source of protein and other essential nutrients for hermit crabs.

16. Cooked chicken – Cooked chicken (unseasoned) is a great source of protein and hermit crabs usually love it!

17. Boiled eggs – Boiled eggs are a good source of protein and other essential nutrients for hermit crabs.

18. Shrimp – Shrimp is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for hermit crabs.

19. Mealworms – Mealworms are a great source of protein and easy to digest for hermit crabs. They are easily found in dried form in the repitle section of pet stores. 

20. Tuna – Tuna is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for hermit crabs. Feed in moderation as some brands of tuna have higher levels of mercury and can be harmful when fed too much.

21. Seaweed – Seaweed is a great source of vitamins and minerals for hermit crabs. Find seaweed in pet stores, and also in the grocery store in the form of sushi wraps.

 

Here’s more foods that are great to feed your hermit crabs as treats, to fill their nutritional needs, and for vacation foods (so you don’t have to worry while you’re gone!) in my post “Hermit Crab Food“, here. 

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can hermit crabs eat lettuce?
Yes, hermit crabs can eat lettuce, but it should be offered in moderation. Lettuce does not provide much nutrition for hermit crabs and can cause digestive problems if fed in large amounts.

Can hermit crabs eat cheese?
No, hermit crabs should not eat cheese. Cheese is high in fat and salt, which can be harmful to hermit crabs. 

Can hermit crabs eat bread?
Yes, hermit crabs can eat bread, but there is no nutritional value for hermit crabs and it too much could cause digestive problems.

Can hermit crabs eat grapes with seeds?
No, hermit crabs should not eat grapes with seeds. The seeds can cause digestive problems and should be removed before feeding the grapes to your pets.

Can hermit crabs eat chocolate?
No, hermit crabs should never eat chocolate. Chocolate can be toxic to hermit crabs, like dogs and other small animals, and can cause serious health problems.

Last update on 2024-05-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API