Crabby Cravings
Hermit crab and exotic pet supplies
Coenobita rugosus
Common Names: Ruggie, Rugs, Tawny Hermit Crab
Identifying features: Ruggies have a generally delicate look compared to other species, slender legs and eyestalks that help differentiate between them and C compressus (who they are often confused with). Their eyes are different in shape, featuring a more tapered slant inwards working downwards, and a small dent on the eyestalk underneath. On the large claw stitch marks can be found, but as these are present in other species they are not a failsafe ID.
Colouration: Ruggies can come in pretty much any shade, from white through to black, green, peach, blue, grey, even pink occasionally. Colour seems to be heavily influenced by diet as well as genetics.
Temperature: 28c
Humidity: 80%
Shell preference: Round openings such as green, silvermouth, Mexican, tapestry and jade turbos. Youngsters may take nerites or calf shells.
Dietary needs: A varied diet of fruit, veg, leaves, bark, flowers, meat, seafood, pre-killed insects, calcium sources, worm castings, seaweed and others, as with the other land hermit crab species.
Coenobita rugosus are a shy but sweet natured species, with a delicate build and hyperactive side that earns them a special place for many enthusiasts. As with any “exotic” species it is recommended to have at least a years successful crabbing with thriving C clypeatus before moving to Ruggies, and it is vital they have their own species buddies.
The substrate for C rugosus should be a little sandier than that of C clypeatus or others, with four parts playsand to one part coir proving to be a good ratio. They are active climbers and will often sleep in the “trees” if such areas are provided.
Ruggies can also be slower growing than some other species, but do enjoy “shell shopping” and will often take oversized shells so benefit from plenty of larger being offered.
For general care information please see the appropriate guides.