Purple Land Hermit Crab (Coenobita brevimanus)
The Purple Land Hermit Crab is one of the largest and most impressive land hermit crab species in the hobby. Recognised for its deep purple claws, robust build, and inquisitive personality, this social invertebrate is both fascinating and rewarding to keep. With proper care and a spacious enclosure, these intelligent crabs display a range of natural behaviours, including climbing, digging, and shell swapping.
Habitat
Native to tropical coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific, Purple Land Hermit Crabs require a warm, humid environment with both fresh and saltwater available.
-
Enclosure: Large, secure terrarium with plenty of floor space (best kept in groups)
-
Temperature: 24–28°C
-
Humidity: High (75–85%)
-
Decor: Climbing branches, cork bark, rocks, hides, moss, and a selection of spare natural shells
-
Water: Provide separate pools of dechlorinated fresh water and marine-grade salt water deep enough for the crabs to fully submerge
Feeding
Purple Land Hermit Crabs are omnivorous scavengers and thrive on a varied diet.
-
Diet: Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, leaf litter, dried insects, shrimp, fish, and specialised hermit crab foods
-
Feeding frequency: Fresh food should be offered daily, removing uneaten items before they spoil
- A source of calcium, such as cuttlebone or crushed oyster shell, should always be available
General Care
These intelligent and social crabs require stable environmental conditions and should never be housed alone.
-
Temperament: Curious, active, and social
-
Handling: Minimal handling recommended to reduce stress
-
Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper care
-
Maintenance: Maintain high humidity, clean water pools, and provide a variety of appropriately sized shells for changing as they grow
Why Choose a Purple Land Hermit Crab?
- One of the largest land hermit crab species
- Stunning deep purple claws and impressive size
- Intelligent, social, and full of personality
- Fascinating behaviours including climbing, burrowing, and shell swapping
The Purple Land Hermit Crab is a unique and engaging pet, making an excellent choice for anyone looking to keep a long-lived, active, and highly entertaining tropical invertebrate.