Strawberry Hermit Crab (Coenobita perlatus) – Special Order in Canada

The Strawberry Hermit Crab (Coenobita perlatus) is one of the most stunning and sought-after terrestrial hermit crabs in the world. Known for its brilliant strawberry-red body, vibrant orange legs, and striking white eye stalks, this beautiful species is a favourite among exotic pet enthusiasts and bioactive terrarium keepers.

Native to tropical Indo-Pacific islands, Strawberry Hermit Crabs are terrestrial hermit crabs, spending nearly all of their lives on land while returning to saltwater only for reproduction. They require a carefully maintained tropical habitat with high humidity, deep substrate, and access to both fresh and marine saltwater.

Monster Aquarium Canada proudly offers Strawberry Hermit Crabs (Coenobita perlatus) as a Special Order item, with professional live animal shipping across Canada where permitted.

Special Order: This species is imported by request only and availability may vary throughout the year.

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Why Choose Strawberry Hermit Crabs?

One of the Most Beautiful Land Hermit Crabs

Strawberry Hermit Crabs are prized for their:

Unique Features

• Brilliant strawberry-red coloration
• Bright orange walking legs
• White eye stalks
• Friendly and active personality
• Long lifespan
• Fascinating shell-changing behaviour
• Excellent for tropical bioactive habitats
• Rare collector’s species

Their vivid colours make them one of the most recognizable hermit crab species available.

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Care Requirements

Enclosure Size

A minimum 20-gallon terrarium is recommended for a small colony.

Hermit crabs are highly social and should always be kept in groups of at least two or more.

Recommended habitat includes:

• Deep sand and coconut fiber substrate (15–20 cm / 6–8 inches minimum)
• High humidity (75–85%)
• Freshwater pool
• Marine saltwater pool
• Driftwood
• Cork bark
• Climbing branches
• Moss
• Multiple hiding areas
• Extra natural shells

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Environmental Parameters

• Scientific Name: Coenobita perlatus
• Common Name: Strawberry Hermit Crab
• Family: Coenobitidae
• Adult Size: Approximately 3–5 inches (7.5–13 cm) including shell
• Temperature: 24–29°C (75–85°F)
• Humidity: 75–85%
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful and social
• Diet: Omnivore
• Origin: Indo-Pacific Islands
• Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper care

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Feeding Your Strawberry Hermit Crab

Strawberry Hermit Crabs are opportunistic omnivores that enjoy a varied natural diet.

Recommended Foods

• Commercial hermit crab food
• Fresh fruits
• Vegetables
• Leaf litter
• Dried insects
• Shrimp
• Fish
• Seaweed
• Unsalted nuts
• Calcium supplements (cuttlebone or crushed oyster shell)

A varied diet promotes healthy molts, vibrant colours, and long-term health.

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Ideal Habitat Setup

A tropical bioactive enclosure closely mimics their natural environment.

Recommended Features

• Deep digging substrate
• Live tropical plants (optional)
• Cork bark
• Cholla wood
• Moss
• Climbing branches
• Fresh and marine saltwater pools
• Numerous natural shells of various sizes

Maintaining stable humidity is essential for healthy respiration and successful molting.

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Compatible Tank Mates

Strawberry Hermit Crabs are best kept with other compatible terrestrial hermit crabs.

Suitable companions include:

• Other Coenobita perlatus
• Purple Pincher Hermit Crabs (Coenobita clypeatus)
• Ecuadorian Hermit Crabs (Coenobita compressus) (with appropriate care)
• Other compatible land hermit crab species

Avoid:

• Reptiles
• Amphibians
• Aquatic crabs
• Freshwater crayfish
• Aggressive invertebrates
• Small mammals

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Strawberry Hermit Crab Behaviour

These intelligent invertebrates display many fascinating behaviours.

Common Behaviours

• Climbing branches
• Digging tunnels
• Exploring at night
• Social interactions
• Shell swapping
• Molting underground

Providing multiple shells allows them to select new homes as they grow.

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Molting and Shell Changes

Molting is a critical stage in a hermit crab’s life.

Molting Tips

• Never disturb buried crabs
• Maintain proper humidity
• Provide plenty of calcium
• Offer extra empty shells
• Keep substrate deep enough for burrowing

Healthy molting is essential for continued growth.

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Why Buy Strawberry Hermit Crabs from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Premium Special Order Exotic Pets

Every Strawberry Hermit Crab is selected for:

• Vibrant natural coloration
• Healthy shell condition
• Active behaviour
• Excellent overall health
• Premium collector quality

Professional Live Shipping Across Canada

Monster Aquarium Canada carefully packages every Strawberry Hermit Crab using professional live animal shipping methods to help ensure safe arrival throughout Canada where permitted.

Canada’s Trusted Aquarium & Exotic Pet Supplier

Monster Aquarium Canada specializes in rare freshwater fish, monster fish, aquatic invertebrates, hermit crabs, aquarium snails, shrimp, premium aquarium supplies, foods, medications, and unique exotic pets for Canadian hobbyists.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Strawberry Hermit Crabs aquatic?

No. They are terrestrial hermit crabs that live primarily on land but require access to both fresh and marine saltwater for drinking and bathing.

2. How long do Strawberry Hermit Crabs live?

With proper care, they can live 20–30 years or longer.

3. Do Strawberry Hermit Crabs need extra shells?

Yes. They regularly change shells as they grow, so multiple appropriately sized natural shells should always be available.

4. Can Strawberry Hermit Crabs live alone?

No. They are social animals and should be kept in groups whenever possible.

5. Is the Strawberry Hermit Crab available year-round?

This species is offered as a Special Order, and availability depends on seasonal imports. Contact Monster Aquarium Canada for current availability and ordering information.