29/11/2025
🦀 Hermit Crab (Ketam Pertapa) – Facts & Details
🌿 Species Overview
Hermit crabs are small crustaceans known for using empty shells to protect their soft bodies. They are not true crabs but are part of the superfamily Paguroidea.
🏝️ Natural Habitat
Found on tropical beaches, rocky shores, mangroves, and shallow waters
Prefer warm, humid environments
Land hermit crabs need both saltwater and freshwater sources
🐚 Unique Characteristics
Shell Borrowers: They do not grow their own shell— instead, they look for empty snail shells to live in
Molting: They shed their exoskeleton as they grow
Social Creatures: Prefer living in groups
Climbers: Very good at climbing and exploring
Sensitive: Easily stressed by temperature or handling
🍽️ Diet
Omnivores
Eat fruits, vegetables, seaweed, fish flakes, and decaying organic matter
Need calcium sources (cuttlebone, crushed coral) for healthy shell development
🌡️ Care Requirements (For Displays/Petting Events)
Temperature: 24–30°C
Humidity: 70–80%
Provide both freshwater & saltwater bowls
Sand substrate deep enough for burrowing
Avoid strong handling as it may stress them
🎉 Fun Facts
Can live 10–30 years with proper care
Communicate by tapping their claws
Sometimes “fight” or negotiate for a new shell
Their eyes are on stalks—helping them see in many directions
