This report reviews the life history, ecology, and culturing potential of the coconut crab
(Birgus latro). Results of field studies on Guam, on several islands in the northern Marianas
archipelago, and on an islet of Kayangel Atoll, Palau, are presented. Observations on the closely
related terrestrial hermit crab genus Coenobita indicated a close relationship between lunar and
tidal phases and larvae-releasing activities. Coconut crabs held in captivity in individual
containers underwent ecdysis, but there was no resulting increase in size. Experiments with a
large enclosure indicated that coconut crabs could be maintained at higher than natural densities
without injuring one another, but no ecdysis or growth occurred. Recommendations for
management of natural coconut crab populations are made. It was concluded that commercial
cultivation of coconut crabs will require considerable further research, and that culturing of other
crustaceans, for which techniques have already been developed, should be given higher priority
on Guam