May 07, 2021 06:20 PM EDT
Populations of coconut crab are only seen in islands across the Indian Ocean and the central Pacific Ocean, with most of their abode located close to the shore. Though they are akin to hermit crabs, these very huge crustaceans only live on land and do not have the ability to swim once they become adults.
Learn about the story surrounding these animals, whether or not they cause danger to humans, and more fascinating details with these 6 enthralling coconut crab facts.
(Photo : Getty Images)
1. Coconut Crabs Are the Largest Terrestrial Crustacean
The Japanese spider crab is the world s largest crustacean, but since they purely dwell in waters, the coconut crab takes the title of the largest crab seen on land. They average more than 5 pounds in weight (though some are up to 9 pounds) and have 36 inches leg span.