Hermit Crab — printable fact sheet

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Hermit Crab

Paguroidea

Hermit crabs are unique crustaceans well-known for their habit of occupying empty shells to protect their soft, vulnerable abdomens. Unlike most crabs, their bodies are asymmetrical to fit into spiraled shells, which they periodically replace as they grow. There are over 800 spe…

Classification

Invertebrate

Family

Paguridae

Habitat

Coastal regions, intertidal zones, and tropical beaches

Diet

Omnivore

Conservation status

Least Concern

Lifespan

2-10 years

Weight

10-200 grams

Scientific name

Paguroidea

Did you know?

Hermit crabs are not true crabs; their closest relatives are actually squat lobsters and porcelain crabs.
Hermit crabs use discarded mollusk shells for protection and will fight or negotiate with other crabs for better shells. Some species form symbiotic relationships with sea anemones, attaching them to their shells for extra defense. Terrestrial hermit crabs can travel surprising distances in search of food, water, or new shells.

What I learned

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