Coenobita clypeatus: Fun Facts About the Purple Pincher Caribbean Hermit Crab
Coenobita clypeatus, also known as the Purple Pincher, Caribbean Hermit Crab and Tree Crab, is a fascinating creature that can be found throughout the Caribbean and in the southern tip of the United States. This type of hermit crab is very popular and typically the species of hermit crab found for sale in pet stores and gift shops.
While this type of hermit crab is typically most popular in the United States and Caribbean, there are other species of hermit crabs sometimes found on the west coast of the U.S. as well as throughout the world. Here’s my post on other types of hermit crabs with photos, here.
Typical Life in the Wild: Coenobita clypeatus
Are They Easily Found, and if Yes, Where?
Coenobita clypeatus (most commonly called the Purple Pincher) can be found throughout the Caribbean, including in countries such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic as well as in the Florida Keys (though their population is dwindling there due to coastal development and lack of suitable shells). They can also be found for sale in pet stores and gift shops, but it’s important to ensure they have been ethically sourced.
Is Their Population Affected by the Pet Industry?
Yes, the pet industry does have an impact on the wild population of the Coenobita clypeatus. Overcollection for the past trade can cause declines in wild populations, and it’s important for pet owners to be aware of this when considering getting a Purple Pincher Caribbean Hermit Crab as a pet.
What Do They Typically Eat in the Wild?
Coenobita clypeatus are omnivores, so they eat a variety of foods in the wild including fruits, nuts, insects and small animals as well as lots of ocean life that washes up on shore like tiny shrimp, seaweed and dead fish. Here’s my post on what hermit crabs eat in the wild with lots of ideas on what to feed your hermit crab pets.
Do They Make Good Pets?
Coenobita clypeatus can make good pets, if you aren’t looking for anything cuddly that you can take for a walk or train. Hermit crabs are very curious, active mostly nocturnal creatures and require a suitable environment in order to remain healthy and happy. They require their habitat to be similar to their natural environment, including a sandy substrate they can burrow in, shelter and things to climb on and hide within. They need access to both fresh and saltwater. It’s also important to provide them with a variety of foods to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need.
FAQ
Q: What size tank do Coenobita clypeatus need?
A: Coenobita clypeatus require a tank that is at least 10 gallons in size for one crab, and additional space for each additional crab but they will quickly grow out of this size tank and it’s best to start with a minimum 20 gallon tank or larger tank or terrarium.
Q: Can Coenobita clypeatus live with other species of hermit crabs?
A: It is not recommended to house Coenobita clypeatus with other species of hermit crabs, as they have different requirements and may not get along.
Q: Do Coenobita clypeatus need a heat lamp?
A: Coenobita clypeatus require a temperature range of 75-85°F, which can be achieved with a heat lamp or a heating pad.
Coenobita clypeatus, also known as the Purple Pincher Caribbean Hermit Crab, is a fascinating creature that can make a great pet for those who are willing to provide them with the appropriate care and habitat.
While they can be found in the wild throughout the Caribbean and on some beaches in the southern tip of Florida, it’s important to ensure that they have been ethically sourced if considering getting one as a pet.
It’s not recommended to take hermit crabs from the wild. They can’t reproduce in captivity (though it is possible under very extensive means) so every hermit crab taken from the wild lessens their population. A great many pet stores and gift shops sell hermit crabs and can’t survive there for long as those are simply temporary habitats. Adopt hermit crab pets from stores and you are saving them from a miserable existence. They can’t burrow or molt, aren’t able to climb and explore, and are most likely not being fed the variety of fresh foods they need to remain healthy.
By understanding their typical life in the wild, where they can be found, the impact of the pet industry on their population, what they typically eat, and their suitability as pets, they can make great pets and will often live longer than dogs.
With proper care, Coenobita clypeatus can live long and happy lives, both in the wild and in captivity.
Purple pincher hermit crabs love turbo shells! As they get older and larger, the turbo shell tends to be their preferred shell due to it’s circular opening, medium weight and condensed inner curve, fitting perfectly to protect their soft bodies inside. Here’s my post with more information on hermit crab shells, here.
See more information on setting up hermit crab habitats with the right types of water and bowls, here. Find tips on adding bubbles and moving water which keeps hermit crabs happy.
Last update on 2024-05-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API