Hermit crabs are sold by the millions as beach souvenirs, but almost all die within weeks from improper care.
The hermit crab souvenir trade is arguably one of the most harmful in the pet industry. Crabs are collected from the wild, painted, and sold in painted shells that prevent proper molting. Most owners receive no welfare information. Death from dehydration, starvation, and shell crisis is the norm, not the exception. Painted shells leach toxins and kill crabs.