The coconut crab (Birgus latro) holds the title of being the largest terrestrial arthropod, belonging to the crustacean family.
Adult individuals can weigh up to 9 kilograms (20 pounds) and have a leg span of over 1 meter (3 feet).
These crabs are found on remote islands and atolls in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
They are particularly common on islands like the Christmas Islands, Cocos Islands, and various parts of the Indo-Pacific region.
coconut crabs are skilled climbers. They can scale trees and even climb up to 6 meters (20 feet) high in search of food or suitable nesting sites.
Like many other crabs, coconut crabs can regenerate lost limbs, which helps them recover from injuries or predator encounters in the wild.
Coconut crabs are known for their impressive strength, which allows them to crack open coconuts to access the nutritious flesh inside. They use their powerful pincers to accomplish this task.
These crabs have a relatively long lifespan compared to other arthropods
Due to their restricted range and habitat, coconut crabs are considered vulnerable to various threats, including habitat destruction, climate change, and overharvesting for the pet trade or as a food source.