Can hermit crabs stay in deep water?

No, hermit crabs cannot stay in deep water for too long. Hermit crabs are air-breathing creatures and require regular access to the surface for air. They can survive brief periods of submersion, but prolonged exposure to deep water can lead to drowning or other health problems.

Hermit crabs typically inhabit shallow waters, such as intertidal zones or rocky coastlines, where they can easily emerge to breathe and forage. They use their modified chelipeds (modified front legs) to grip onto rocks or other objects, preventing them from being swept away by strong currents or waves. While some species of hermit crab may venture into slightly deeper waters, they generally avoid areas where they cannot easily access the surface.