Paguroidea, commonly known as hermit crabs, are notable for their adaptive behavior of inhabiting empty shells for protection. Found in marine and terrestrial environments, these crustaceans are known for their soft, coiled abdomens, which they secure inside borrowed shells. They play a role in cleaning up debris and act as prey for various predators.

Paguroidea, commonly known as hermit crabs, are predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions across the world. Their geographical distribution includes the coastlines of the Indo-Pacific region, the Caribbean Sea, and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. They are also found in the Mediterranean Sea and along the eastern and western coasts of North and South America.

Hermit crabs typically inhabit coastal areas, including sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and coral reefs. They require a humid environment with access to both land and water, as they need to keep their gills moist to breathe. The climate in these areas is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).

Hermit crabs occupy a unique ecological niche as scavengers. They play a vital role in the ecosystem by feeding on detritus, dead plants, and animals, thus helping to recycle nutrients. Hermit crabs are also known for their symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, which they often carry on their borrowed shells for protection against predators. Variations in habitat can occur due to the presence of different species and subspecies, some of which have adapted to more terrestrial environments.