Birgus latro
Japanese Name: ヤシガニ
Chinese Name: 椰子蟹
English Name: Coconut Crab
Origin: Tropical islands along the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific coasts (though extinct on some islands). In Japan, they are found from the Amami Islands to the westernmost Yonaguni Island.
Coconut crabs belong to the land hermit crab family. Juvenile coconut crabs carry shells like hermit crabs, and it’s only after two years that they abandon the shells, curling their tails to protect their soft abdomens. Coconut crabs grow slowly, with males taking at least five years to reach sexual maturity.
For field records of coconut crabs at different ages, you can refer to the article from the Environmental Information Center:
“Protected Coconut Crab Family Found on Green Island: Taiwan’s First Complete Record”
In Iriomote Island, the local Okinawans are very skilled at catching coconut crabs, but those unfamiliar with them should avoid trying it. Getting pinched by their powerful claws is no joke, and even getting scratched by their sharp leg tips is painful.
Many years ago, coconut crabs were sold at the old Makishi Public Market. Growing to such a large size is no easy feat, as they can live for around 50 years. Some of these crabs in the boxes may even be older than us. Personally, I hope that visitors to Okinawa refrain from eating coconut crabs to reduce the impact on wild populations.
Also, when driving at night during summer, please be careful to avoid roadkill of these crabs.
