Are you considering adding a lizard to your home aquarium or terrarium but also having hermit crabs you want to keep? It’s a common question among pet owners, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. While some lizard species and hermit crabs can coexist, there are certain things to consider before introducing them to each other.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether lizards and hermit crabs can live together, what species work best together, how to house them together, and what to keep in mind before you decide to introduce them.
Can lizards live with hermit crabs?
It’s a common question when purchasing a pet chameleon or a hermit crab.
Can lizards live with hermit crabs?
The answer may surprise some people.
While it’s not ideal for keeping these animals together, however, if done correctly, they can make an exciting combination of housemates.
Since both lizards and hermit crabs require different habitats and temperatures in their environment, extra caution must be taken when setting up the tank.
However, given the proper care and attention to detail, this can be an exciting way to observe two species living together.
Having these two animals in one tank provides a unique form of entertainment—and gives pet owners something truly memorable to enjoy.
Points to consider
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that not all lizard species are compatible with hermit crabs.
Some lizards, like monitor lizards or chameleons, are known predators and could potentially harm or even kill the hermit crabs.
However, some species, like smaller gecko species, can coexist peacefully with these crustaceans.
Housing
If you’re interested in housing lizards and hermit crabs together, it’s best to do so in a vivarium (a type of terrarium that includes both land and water components).
A vivarium can accommodate the different needs of both animals and provide them with ample living space.
You can also create multiple zones within the vivarium to allow each animal to have their own space and avoid territorial disputes.
It’s also essential to consider the type of hermit crabs you have.
Tree-climbing hermit crabs may not be compatible with some lizards since they both occupy and compete for similar spaces.
On the other hand, land-dwelling hermit crabs will be more compatible, given that each species has its own space and hide-out location.
Introductions
When introducing lizards and hermit crabs to each other, it’s best to do so slowly and carefully.
Start by placing them on separate sides of the enclosure and monitor their behavior for a few weeks. Then, if everything goes well, you can gradually introduce them to each other.
Another essential thing to remember is both animals’ temperature and humidity requirements.
Lizards usually require higher temperatures and lower humidity levels compared to hermit crabs.
Make sure to research the specific requirements of each species and ensure that the vivarium provides these conditions.
Which lizards can co-habit with Hermit crabs?
Answering the question of what lizards can co-habit with hermit crabs may depend on the size and personalities of the particular lizards and hermit crabs.
Hermit crabs tend to be relatively timid creatures, so placing a large, aggressive lizard in its home may not be ideal.
Instead, opt for species like Anole lizards or Gecko lizards, which are smaller and typically have peaceful temperaments.
Since reptiles usually require access to slightly higher temperatures than hermit crabs prefer, it’s best to use a heat lamp that provides just enough warmth to satisfy the needs of both inhabitants while keeping the overall temperature down in their shared space.
Whether you create a habitat full of these happy pairings is up to you.
Which lizards can NOT co-habit with Hermit crabs?
1. Bearded dragons
Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that is native to Australia. They are popular pets due to their docile nature and ability to be trained. However, bearded dragons cannot co-habit with hermit crabs as they are known to eat them.
2. Blue-tongued skinks
Blue-tongued skinks are a type of lizard that is native to Australia and Indonesia. They get their name from the blue tongue that they use to deter predators.
Blue-tongued skinks cannot co-habit with hermit crabs as they may mistake them for food and eat them.
3. Green iguanas
Green iguanas are a type of lizard that is native to Central and South America. They are popular pets due to their docile nature and vibrant coloration. However, green iguanas cannot co-habit with hermit crabs as they may mistake them for food and eat them.
4. Leopard geckos
Leopard geckos are a type of lizard that is native to Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan. They are popular pets due to their docile nature and ability to be trained. However, leopard geckos cannot co-habit with hermit crabs as they may mistake them for food and eat them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lizards and hermit crabs can live together peacefully but require careful consideration and planning. Selecting compatible species is essential, requiring similar temperature and humidity levels. Using a vivarium and creating separate areas for the two species is advised to avoid territorial disputes or aggression. As with any introduction, taking caution and monitoring the initial stage is necessary for successful coexistence. However, your lizard and hermit crabs can happily thrive in the same environment with suitable companions, a well-designed habitat, and proper attention to detail.
