Hermit crabs are unique and curious pets that need more than just a tank with sand and a few shells to live a full life. In the wild, they search beaches and forests for bits of old plants, wood, algae, dead animals, and other natural things to eat. This mixed diet gives them important nutrients like protein, calcium, and fiber. These help their shells stay strong, support molting, and keep them active. When keeping hermit crabs at home, we should try to give them a similar mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, eggs, and calcium-rich items like crushed eggshells or cuttlebone. What they eat can affect how they grow, how often they molt, and how lively they are.
This care guide will show you exactly what to feed them, safe store-bought options, feeding tips, common mistakes to avoid, and fun DIY treats to keep your crabs happy and healthy.
What Can Hermit Crabs Eat?
Hermit crabs are opportunistic omnivores. That means they eat both plant and animal matter—often choosing food based on smell, texture, and nutritional value. Below is the 2025 safe food list based on studies and popular practices from hermit crab care experts.
Safe Fruits (Fresh or Dried)
- Apple (no seeds), mango, banana, watermelon, papaya, blueberries
- Dates and figs (unsweetened)
- Dried coconut shavings (no added sugar)
Note: Fruits provide natural sugar and moisture. Remove leftovers within 12 hours.
Vegetables
- Leafy greens: spinach, kale, collard greens
- Carrots, zucchini, sweetcorn, pumpkin, peas
- Seaweed (dried or fresh), especially nori
Protein Sources
- Boiled egg (especially the yolk)
- Plain cooked chicken or turkey (unseasoned)
- Dried insects: mealworms, crickets, bloodworms
- Fish flakes (without copper sulfate)
Offer marine-based protein at least 2–3 times a week to support molting and immune health.
Calcium and Mineral Boosters
- Crushed eggshells (bake to sanitize)
- Cuttlebone
- Mineral blocks (copper-free only)
Grains & Seeds
- Cooked brown rice, oatmeal, whole grain crackers (unsalted)
- Chia seeds, flaxseeds, sesame seeds
Other Natural Additions
- Organic peanut butter (tiny amounts)
- Bee pollen
- Organic dried herbs: dandelion, parsley, alfalfa, hibiscus
What to NEVER Feed Hermit Crabs (Warnings)
Certain ingredients can kill or severely weaken your hermit crab. Here’s a current list of strictly avoidable foods as of 2025:
- Citrus fruits (lemon, orange, lime, grapefruit)
- Onion and garlic
- Dairy products
- Chocolate and sweets
- Salty snacks or processed meats
- Raw beans or potatoes
- Iceberg lettuce (low in nutrients)
- Avocado
- Foods with preservatives, coloring, or added oils
Best Hermit Crab Food Brands in 2025
Many commercial foods are marketed toward convenience but not all are safe. In 2025, crab owners prefer organic blends with zero preservatives and no copper sulfate.
Top-Rated Commercial Brands (2025)
- Hermit Natural Choice – Organic seaweed and fruit blend
- Crab Cuisine Plus – High-protein granules with spirulina and dulse
- HabiCrab Complete – Balanced dried mix with calcium and marine proteins
- Fluker’s Buffet Blend – Check for copper-free variants only
Always rotate between fresh and commercial options to simulate natural foraging behavior.
Homemade Hermit Crab Food: Easy Recipes
Making DIY hermit crab food at home lets you control freshness and ingredients.
Simple 2025 Recipes
- Crab Energy Balls: Mix oatmeal, banana mash, flaxseed, and bee pollen. Dry for 24 hours.
- Protein Toppers: Mix boiled egg yolk with crushed shrimp.
- Fruit Cubes: Freeze a tiny fruit puree (mango or blueberry) and offer occasionally.
Avoid baby food unless verified preservative-free and onion-free.
Feeding Frequency & Habits in Captivity
Hermit crabs are nocturnal grazers. Their food routine should match their natural behavior.
- Feed once every 24 hours, preferably in the evening
- Use separate dishes for dry and moist food
- Clean uneaten food daily
- Offer crushed calcium in a separate bowl
- Provide both dechlorinated freshwater and marine saltwater
Monitor them during molting periods as feeding may temporarily stop.
How Diet Affects Molting, Shell Growth & Behavior
Hermit crabs molt every few months, and diet directly impacts this process.
Signs of Good Nutrition
- Active nighttime behavior
- Smooth exoskeleton
- Bright eye stalks and alert movements
- Regular molting
- Strong grip and climbing behavior
Poor Diet Indicators
- Black spots or shell discoloration
- Cracks in claws
- Lethargy or hiding
- Loss of limbs outside molting
A 2023 study in the Crustacean Health Journal noted that diets rich in marine protein and calcium reduced post-molt stress by 21%.
Tips for Safe, Clean Feeding Environment
- Use ceramic or stainless-steel dishes
- Avoid placing food directly on sand
- Remove spoiled or wet food promptly
- Maintain tank humidity around 70–80 percent
- Keep food in sealed containers to retain nutrients
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Conclusion
Feeding hermit crabs properly is very important because they need different types of food to stay healthy. In the wild, they eat many things like old wood, small dead animals, seaweed, and things found in the sand. At home, we should try to give them a mix of fresh fruits, vegetables, protein like eggs or shrimp, and calcium from eggshells or cuttlebone. This helps them grow strong shells, stay active, and go through molting without problems. Giving them different clean foods every day keeps them healthy and happy in their tank.
FAQs
Q1. Can I feed my hermit crab only pellets?
No. Pellets lack variety and important nutrients. Use them as a supplement only.
Q2. Is fish food safe for hermit crabs?
Only if it’s free from copper sulfate. Read all labels before use.
Q3. Should I refrigerate fresh food for crabs?
Yes, but always serve at room temperature and avoid giving cold food directly.
Q4. How do I provide salt for hermit crabs?
Offer a separate bowl with marine-grade saltwater. Do not add salt to their food.
Q5. How long can hermit crabs go without eating?
They can survive a few days, especially when molting, but regular feeding supports better health.