Coenobita purpureus
Japanese name: ムラサキオカヤドカリ
Chinese name: 紫陸寄居蟹
English name: Blueberry Hermit Crab
Origin: Japan, Taiwan
The Blueberry Hermit Crab was once considered endemic to Japan but has recently been discovered in Taiwan as well. Juveniles are pale gray and difficult to distinguish from other land hermit crab species. However, adults develop a striking purple coloration, which unfortunately has made them a target of illegal poaching due to their beauty.
In Japan, all species of land hermit crabs are designated as Natural Monuments and are strictly protected, with collection prohibited. Despite this, illegal harvesting has been increasingly reported in recent years, especially in areas such as Okinawajima and Amami Oshima.
Reference: Land Hermit Crab Laboratory
