Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) – Special Order | Ultra Rare

The Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) is one of the world’s most extraordinary terrestrial crustaceans and the largest land-living arthropod on Earth. Known for its immense size, incredible climbing ability, and legendary strength, the Coconut Crab has become one of the most sought-after species among advanced exotic animal collectors. Coconut Crab Canada

Unlike true freshwater crabs, the Coconut Crab is a fully terrestrial hermit crab relative that spends nearly its entire adult life on land. Famous for its powerful claws capable of cracking coconuts and climbing trees, this remarkable species is native to islands throughout the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Monster Aquarium Canada may offer Coconut Crabs by special request, subject to availability, legal import requirements, and applicable provincial and federal regulations.

Availability: On Request

Rarity: Ultra Rare

Please contact Monster Aquarium Canada before placing an order. Availability cannot be guaranteed.

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Why Choose a Coconut Crab?

One of the World’s Most Incredible Crustaceans

Coconut Crabs are prized for their:

Unique Features

• Largest terrestrial arthropod in the world
• Incredible climbing ability
• Extremely powerful claws
• Stunning blue, purple, orange, or brown colour variations
• Long lifespan
• Highly intelligent behaviour
• Rare collector’s species
• Exceptional exotic display animal

No two Coconut Crabs display identical colours or markings.

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Natural History

Unlike aquatic crabs, adult Coconut Crabs live almost entirely on land.

They naturally inhabit:

• Tropical islands
• Coastal forests
• Limestone caves
• Rocky shorelines
• Coconut plantations

Although their larvae develop in the ocean, mature animals return to land and rarely enter water.

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Care Requirements

Enclosure Size

Because of their eventual size, Coconut Crabs require very large custom-built terrestrial enclosures.

Recommended habitat includes:

• Deep digging substrate
• High humidity
• Excellent ventilation
• Large climbing structures
• Heavy hiding caves
• Freshwater dish
• Marine saltwater dish
• Secure escape-proof enclosure

These animals are not suitable for standard aquariums.

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Environmental Parameters

• Scientific Name: Birgus latro
• Common Name: Coconut Crab
• Family: Coenobitidae
• Adult Size: Up to 16 inches (40 cm) leg span
• Weight: Up to 4 kg (9 lbs)
• Temperature: 24–30°C (75–86°F)
• Humidity: 70–85%
• Care Level: Expert
• Temperament: Territorial
• Diet: Omnivore
• Origin: Indo-Pacific Islands
• Lifespan: 40–60 years or more under ideal conditions

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Feeding Your Coconut Crab

Coconut Crabs are opportunistic omnivores.

Recommended Foods

• Coconut flesh
• Tropical fruits
• Nuts
• Leaf litter
• Seeds
• Insects
• Crabs and shellfish
• Fish
• Eggs
• High-quality invertebrate diets

A varied diet supports healthy growth and proper shell development.

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Behaviour

Coconut Crabs are famous for their intelligence and strength.

Common Behaviours

• Climbing trees
• Digging burrows
• Cracking coconuts
• Carrying heavy objects
• Exploring their enclosure
• Foraging at night
• Defending territory

Adults possess one of the strongest pinching forces measured among crustaceans.

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Is a Coconut Crab Right for You?

Because of their size and specialized care, Coconut Crabs are recommended only for highly experienced exotic invertebrate keepers.

Considerations include:

• Very large adult size
• Long lifespan
• Powerful claws
• Large custom enclosure requirements
• High humidity needs
• Limited availability
• Legal ownership regulations

Potential owners should carefully research local regulations and long-term care before acquiring one.

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Why Buy from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Rare Exotic Species

Monster Aquarium Canada specializes in sourcing rare and unusual aquatic and terrestrial species whenever legally available.

Our team can assist with:

• Special-order inquiries
• Import availability
• Professional animal transportation
• Care recommendations
• Premium exotic species

Because Coconut Crabs are exceptionally rare, availability changes frequently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Coconut Crabs freshwater crabs?

No. Coconut Crabs are terrestrial hermit crab relatives that live almost entirely on land as adults.

2. How large do Coconut Crabs grow?

Adults can reach a leg span of up to 16 inches (40 cm) and weigh up to 4 kg (9 lbs), making them the world’s largest terrestrial arthropods.

3. Can Coconut Crabs live in an aquarium?

No. They require large terrestrial enclosures with deep substrate, climbing structures, and controlled humidity.

4. Why are Coconut Crabs so rare?

Their limited natural range, slow growth, conservation concerns, and strict import regulations make them extremely difficult to obtain.

5. Can Monster Aquarium Canada obtain Coconut Crabs?

When legally possible, Monster Aquarium Canada may source Coconut Crabs by special request. Please contact us for current availability and import options.