How big is the Common hermit crab?

Common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) reaches 3–10 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Common hermit crab?

Common hermit crab is found between 0–140 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Common hermit crab?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Common hermit crab?

Found in: East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus)

Key facts

Scientific name: Pagurus bernhardus
Common name: Common hermit crab
Category: Crustaceans
Family: Paguridae
Genus: Pagurus
Size: 3–10 cm
Depth: 0–140 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: rocky, sand
Behaviours: scavenger
Ocean zones: East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Pagurus bernhardus reaches 10 cm with claws extended. Largest and most common NE Atlantic hermit crab, from Norway to Portugal. Soft orange-red body hidden in an empty shell, right claw much larger than left, used to close the entrance. Swaps shells as it grows, sometimes negotiating with conspecifics. Also moves symbiotic anemones at times. Common from 0 to 140 m.

Photo of Common hermit crab

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Common hermit crab?: Common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) reaches 3–10 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Common hermit crab?: Common hermit crab is found between 0–140 m deep.
Is the Common hermit crab dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Common hermit crab?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Common hermit crab?: Found in: East Atlantic, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Similar species

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 107232)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2224231)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia