Invertebrate · Other invertebrate
Caribbean hermit crab care guide
Coenobita clypeatus
The caribbean hermit crab is a intermediate-level other invertebrate from Caribbean, Florida, Venezuela. Adults reach Body 3–8 cm and live 15–30 years in captivity. Keep in groups with deep damp sand-coir substrate, spare shells and both water types.
- Enclosure 75 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 24–28°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a caribbean hermit crab cost in Canada?
Caribbean hermit crab quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Body 3–8 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–30 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Caribbean, Florida, Venezuela
- Minimum enclosure
- 75 × 30 × 30 cm (30 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 18 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 24–28°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Omnivore – fruit, vegetables, seafood, calcium
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Caribbean hermit crab enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 75 × 30 × 30 cm (30 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a caribbean hermit crab eat?
Omnivore – fruit, vegetables, seafood, calcium. Offer fresh food daily with fresh and salt water dishes always available.
Handling, temperament & health
Social and generally docile, but pinches if frightened.
Health watch: Deaths during moulting from shallow or dry substrate.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a caribbean hermit crab bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (75 × 30 × 30 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 15 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Caribbean hermit crab FAQ
Is the caribbean hermit crab good for beginners?
The caribbean hermit crab is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Social and generally docile, but pinches if frightened.
What size enclosure does a caribbean hermit crab need?
At least 75 × 30 × 30 cm (about 30 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 18 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a caribbean hermit crab cost in Canada?
Typically $15–40 CAD to buy, about $250–430 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a caribbean hermit crab need?
Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a caribbean hermit crab eat?
Omnivore – fruit, vegetables, seafood, calcium. Offer fresh food daily with fresh and salt water dishes always available.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.