Exotics Reappearing in America?

It was around two or three years ago the exotic hermit crabs (Violas [Coenobita violascens], Cavipes [Coenobita cavipes], Indos [Coenobita brevimanus], and Ruggies [Coenobita rugosus]) started becoming popular to the crabbing community in the United States. Many crabbers were buying these exotics species and they quickly became adored.

As the years passed by, the exotic species of hermit crabs slowly started disappearing and we were left with Purple Pinchers (Coenobita clypeatus) and Ecuadorians (Coenobita compressus). Although these two species are very nice, everybody wants what they can't have...so we all wanted more exotics.

After waiting a year or so, I believe the exotic species of hermit crabs may finally be reappearing in America. Many crabbers are finding Indos, Ruggies, and Violas nowadays than I have seen in a long time. For instance, I have found both a Viola and two Ruggies in a small pet store.

While this may seem good, in reality it is not. Although we love our hermit crabs, it is good to allow them to stay in the wild. It is a bittersweet relationship between us and the crabs.