New Record of Land Hermit Crabs Coenobita pseudorugosus Nakasone, 1988 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura: Coenobitidae) from Taiwan

Abstract

Land hermit crabs play a pivotal role in ecosystems as scavengers, contributing to the nutrient cycle in coastal forests and serving as a food source for various consumers. Nevertheless, they are subjected to large-scale capture for the pet trade in multiple regions. It is imperative to expand our knowledge of land hermit crabs to enhance conservation efforts. Taiwan is located in the transition zone between tropical and subtropical regions with rich biodiversity. Seven land hermit crab (Family: Coenobitidae) species have been identified here, namely Birgus latro, Coenobita brevimanus, C. cavipes, C. perlatus, C. purpureus, C. rugosus, and C. violascens. This article introduces the scientific record of the 8th species, Coenobita pseudorugosus, in Taiwan. Further ecological research of C. pseudorugosus is essential to deepen our understanding of this species and ensure its conservation status.