Housing
Use an aquarium with a glass cover. Humidity is essential to the crabs well-being. The floor of the aquarium should be kept dry and can be covered with shell grit, aquarium sand, or in winter coarse saw dust to help keep them warm. A piece of drift wood or mangrove root looks attractive as well as providing a great playground. Land hermit crabs love to climb.

Heat
The land hermit crab is tropical and is best kept at about 30⁰C. Do not let the temperatures drop below 20⁰C. Heating can be provided by installing a low wattage globe over the top of the aquarium. Make sure a thermometer is used to monitor temperature.

Water
Two bowls of water must be provided; one containing freshwater for drinking, the other containing sea water for bathing. (Synthetic sea salt can be used to make up the sea water. Use one level teaspoon (5cc) of Aquasonic sea salt per 100 mls of fresh water). Ensure the water bowls are sturdy and cannot be tipped over. As previously mentioned, the floor of the aquarium must be kept dry. Change the water frequently to keep it clean.

Food
A range of foods can be offered including fish pellets, any cereal, bread, shredded coconut, apple, and other varieties of fruit. Only put in small quantities at a time to ensure it is fresh when eaten.

Extra Shells
The crab will climb out of it's shell and "put on" a new one from time to time. Therefore, a few spare shells should be kept in the aquarium for this purpose. It is essential a slightly larger size one is available to the crab after it has moulted.

Moulting
Like other crabs, the land hermit crab needs to cast off it's outer skeleton, usually twice a year. After it has moulted, the crab needs to be left alone for several weeks until it's new skeleton hardens.

Habits
The land hermit crab is somewhat nocturnal by nature and will sleep during most of the day. Low temperature and low humidity also sends it into it's shell. Warm humid air and the warmth of your hand is usually sufficient to wake it up.