Terrestrial hermit crabs (Coenobita spp.) were observed feeding
on a variety of food items corresponding with observations on the genus
worldwide . A field experiment was conducted which examined (1) the feeding
activity of Coenobita in two habitats and (2) their potential impact on the
removal of carrion and on the colonization of carrion by fly maggots. Habitat
and time of day influenced the size and species of Coenobita feeding. Large C.
perlatus fed only at night and had the greatest impact on the carrion. Although
small Coenobita had little effect on the carrion, their feeding activity did reduce
the number of fly maggots in the carrion. The scavenging activity of hermit crabs
may serve a useful role on inhabited islets. The rapid removal of carrion would
reduce potential fly breeding sites