world gallery

The Coconut Crab (Birgus Latro) is the largest terrestrial arthropod in the world. Related to the Hermit Crab, it is found in the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans. Measuring at more than 3 feet from head to tail and weighing up to 40 pounds with a pair of large pincers, these arthropods have a pair of large pincers that are strong enough to open coconuts! While they can also climb trees, they only eat coconuts that have already fallen to the ground. Coconut crab meat is considered a local delicacy. It's sometimes called the "Robber Crab" because some Coconut Crabs are rumored to steal shiny items such as pots and silverware from houses and tents. The second photo gives you a good idea of how large these suckers are.