Hermit Crab vs. Horse Conch

Hermit Crabs as Pets: Know These Pros and Cons Before Getting One

Hermit Crabs

New Hermit Crab Species Pylopaguropsis mollymullerae

Giant Hermit Crabs are the largest hermit crab species found in the Western Atlantic Ocean, and they are one of the prettiest, with their lovely red coloring (they also have eyelashes!) They primarily feed by scavenging, which is why the resident Giant Hermit Crab in our Hardbottom Exhibit likes to dig through the sand. We like to add a small type of clam to the tank, burying it in the sand so it can cruise around, digging away, enriching its stay by enforcing a natural behavior. #smithsoniansms

What is a hermit crab and how do they wear shells?