Hermit crabs are small, terrestrial crabs that are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They get their name from their habit of living in abandoned snail shells, which they use for protection. Hermit crabs are social creatures and often live in large groups. They are omnivorous, eating both plant and animal matter.
The first hermit crab fossils date back to the Late Cretaceous period, around 80 million years ago. Since then, hermit crabs have remained relatively unchanged. They are believed to have originated in the tropical regions of the world and spread to other areas, including the coasts of Europe and North America, over time.
Hermit crabs are popular pets, and their popularity has led to a thriving captive breeding industry. Captive-bred hermit crabs are often sold in pet stores, and many people are unaware that they are not naturally found in the wild in North America.