Purple Pinchers and Ecuadrian Hermit Crabs

[samyers91]

I have three Purple Pinchers at home and am considering purchasing an Ecuadrian Hermit Crab. I have heard mixed comments on whether they would get along or not. Should I get an Ecuadrian crab or stick with Purple Pinchers?

[landlubber]

I've never had much of an issue with PPs and Es housed together. I had an E once who was very dominant and did a lot of posturing and acting obnoxious and the only one who ever got hurt from it was himself when he harassed the other crab and she pinched his big claw, but he was fine. The only time I've had a crab actually kill another crab was one PP, and he killed several. I think it was just the factors related to those two particular crabs, not their species type. I have Es and PPs in the same tank now. Some feel Es get more feisty with the more crabs there are in the tank, so keep that in mind.

[samyers91]

Thanks I will definitely keep that in mind!

[CallaLily]

You will get various responses. Some have had issues with Es, both kept with another species or kept alone. Others have had zero problems. And I'm sure there's a few who fall in between (I certainly do). Your best bet is to search out posts about the subject and come to your own conclusion. If you decide to try them together, keeping a spare crabitat on hand just in case wouldn't hurt (it never hurts regardless of what species you have). Though like I said, there have been a few very experienced crabbers who've even had trouble keeping them separate from other species. Good luck in whatever you decide.

[samyers91]

Ok thank you!

[Rawrgeous]

I wouldn't unless you're sure your tank can handle two more crabs....because you always want a species buddy! From what I've read they also dig more, and are more active so you'd probably want a 40 gallon or larger. They're adorable though!

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[samyers91]

Ok thank you