Quick answer
Coconut Crabs (Birgus latro) are invertebrates found across Asia. The world's largest land arthropod and tree-climbing island giant. Adults typically weigh Up to about 4 kg (9 lb), reach speeds of up to 4 km/h (2 mph), and live Possibly 40–60 years. They feed on omnivore (coconuts, fruit, seeds, carrion) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Tropical islands across the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, from the Andaman Islands east to the Cook Islands.
Key takeaway
Coconut Crabs (Birgus latro) are invertebrates found across Asia. The world's largest land arthropod and tree-climbing island giant. Adults typically weigh Up to about 4 kg (9 lb), reach speeds of up to 4 km/h (2 mph), and live Possibly 40–60 years. They feed on omnivore (coconuts, fruit, seeds, carrion) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Tropical islands across the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, from the Andaman Islands east to the Cook Islands.
Coconut Crab overview
Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) is a invertebrate listed here as Vulnerable. Typical weight Up to about 4 kg (9 lb); lifespan around Possibly 40–60 years.
Coconut Crab ecology
Diet: Omnivore (coconuts, fruit, seeds, carrion). Habitat: Tropical islands across the Indo-Pacific. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Coconut Crabs and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild coconut crabs are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Vulnerable. See the full Coconut Crab profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Coconut Crabs inhabit Tropical islands across the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, from the Andaman Islands east to the Cook Islands. Their preferred habitat includes tropical islands across the indo-pacific, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persis
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult coconut crabs typically measure about 0.4 m in length and weigh Up to about 4 kg (9 lb). They can sprint at up to 4 km/h (2 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Coconut Crabs are known for the world's largest land arthropod and tree-climbing island giant — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Coconut Crab FAQs
What are key facts about coconut crabs?
Coconut Crabs (Birgus latro) are invertebrates found across Asia. The world's largest land arthropod and tree-climbing island giant. Adults typically weigh Up to about 4 kg (9 lb), reach speeds of up to 4 km/h (2 mph), and live Possibly 40–60 years. They feed on omnivore (coconuts, fruit, seeds, carrion) and are listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Tropical islands across the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, from the Andaman Islands east to the Cook Islands.
What is the scientific name of the coconut crab?
Birgus latro — used in research and conservation listings for coconut crabs.
What do coconut crabs eat?
Coconut Crabs eat coconuts, fruit, seeds and carrion, with seasonal and regional variation in Tropical islands across the Indo-Pacific.
Where do coconut crabs live?
They are associated with Tropical islands across the Indo-Pacific. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of coconut crabs?
Listed in our guides as Vulnerable. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.