Meat substitutes?

[noahc66]

Is there any possible way hermit crabs can survive with a vegetarian diet? Could milk, eggs, egg shells, and other types of protein that comes from animals be good substitutes for meat?

[emmac350]

Unfortunately, no. Crabs are hard-wired to want animal protein. Their bodies need it, and if you don't give it to them, you will have fighting in your tank (cannibalism, in their minds, is a perfectly acceptable way to get the protein they need). Eggs can take the place of meat occasionally, but they don't like eating the same thing more than once a week or so.

Just like how humans need protein...and cats, and dogs, and lions. You wouldn't ask a lion to become a vegetarian, would you?

[ladybug15057]

Also please remember, whereas some protein sources are considered considered chitin, not all are. It is VERY important to offer chitin in the hermies diet.

[Jedi_Sena]

My crabs get very little meat. I feed lots of nuts, seeds, and leaves; some beans and dairy. Leafy greens actually have a good amount of protein and veggie sources of protein are easily digested. I still have Zamboni and he is many years old and still in great health with good color. I have never had a problem with cannibalism. If you notice a spike in aggression though, I would definitely offer some raw fish or shrimp (along with other anti-aggression measures).