The Giant Coconut Crab
Meet the largest arthropod on Earth! These incredible creatures measure up to a meter in length and weigh almost 4 kilograms. They grow continuously throughout their lifespan and can live to be 30-60 years of age. Coconut crabs are found on small, tropical islands situated in the Indian and Pacific ocean.
The Crab is among the most bizarre animals on our planet and it lives in underground burrows covered with coconut husks. Although they spend most of their time on the ground, these crabs are capable of climbing palm trees that stand 33 feet tall. While on the tree, they break open coconuts with their massive claws, and fall to the ground. They can withstand falls from heights of 15 feet without sustaining any damage. Coconut crabs eat a variety of fruits, including coconuts, but also eat other small crabs and dead animals they encounter along the beach. Although resilient creatures on land, Coconut crabs will die within just one hour if they are left in water.
