Hermit crabs are commonly sold as low-maintenance pets but have complex social and environmental needs that are rarely met in captivity.
Pet hermit crabs commonly die within months from dehydration due to insufficient humidity, inappropriate substrate preventing normal molting, lack of appropriate shells causing fatal injuries during molts, and social isolation. The bright painted shells sold with hermit crabs are harmful and often cause toxicity. Despite their small size, their welfare needs are substantial and consistently unmet.