Setting up a `crabitat' for pet hermit crabs. From: Knight Ridder/Tribune | Date: June 7, 2006 | COPYRIGHT 2006 Knight Ridder/Tribune. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan.  All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group.Copyright information

Byline: Dr. Marty Becker

Hermit crabs take up very little space, don't chew or scratch furniture, seem to have unique personalities, and never need to be taken for walks. No wonder they are gaining fans and places in our homes, including film stars Kim Basinger and Scott Bakula, both among the growing ranks of proud hermit crab owners.

"We've seen a big increase in the demand for hermit crabs and related supplies," says Joe Fucini, a spokesman for the Pet Sup...