Marine life profile

Hermit crab

Recorded at 0 dive sites

Where divers encounter it

Explore Hermit crab around the world

Hermit crabs are anomuran decapod crustaceans of the superfamily Paguroidea that have adapted to occupy empty scavenged gastropod shells to protect their fragile abdomens. Most stay close to cover, emerging to feed, clean other animals or defend a small shelter.

Dive sites0

Countries0

Animal groupCrustaceans

Safety profileGenerally Harmless

Meet the species

What to look for

How to Recognize It

Look for a jointed shell, paired antennae and articulated legs adapted for walking, digging or gripping.

How It Behaves

Most stay close to cover, emerging to feed, clean other animals or defend a small shelter.

Special Ability

A tough external skeleton provides portable armor and is replaced as the animal grows.

Dive responsibly

Share the water well

How to Approach

Settle nearby and wait. Avoid touching antennae, claws or the shelter, especially during a night dive.

Safety

Observe without handling. Claws and defensive spines can injure, and recently molted animals are especially vulnerable.

Worth knowing

The detail you remember

Interesting Facts

There are over 800 species of hermit crab, most of which possess an asymmetric abdomen concealed by a snug-fitting shell.

Where to Find

Search beneath ledges, inside coral heads, around anemones and across rubble after sunset.