Hermit crabs
have a unique characteristic of using a shell to live that is extracted from
another creature. This "borrowed" shell helps them to protect their
soft abdomen and also holds the moisture that is essential for them.
It depends on
the Hermit's choice and its species that how often the creature opts to change
its shell. Caribbean hermit crabs usually change their shells frequently
compared to other species. On the other hand, Ecuadorian hermits tend to stick
to the same for a long time. Therefore, pet hermit crabs should be provided
with a wide variety of shells so that the Hermit can transfer to another shell
wherever it is needed.
Crabs are
often very picky with the preferred shells, and hence, it is essential to
prepare a good variety of hermit crab shells. So, if you do not have enough shells for
the Hermit to change, then it can be stressful for the crabs.
Choosing Hermit Crab shell-
There are a
wide variety of hermit crab shells that are available on the internet to buy.
You may have to apply trial and error to get the best type of shell your hermit
crab, according to their preference. So, it is best to offer multiple
appropriately sized shells so that the crab doesn't have to face much hassle
while transferring.
- Size: For
your pet hermit crab, offer at least three shells with similar-sized
openings. One should be almost of the same size, and the other should be
larger as well as smaller than the residing shell. So, it will depend on
the crab which shell it will choose.
Providing a good variety in terms of sizes,
and shapes, offers the chance to your Hermit to pick the one which is the best
and of the right size. The Hermit will always choose the one which is of the
right size as if the shell is too large; then, it will be hard to hold onto or move
around. And on the other hand, if the shell is too small, then the crab won't
be able to enter into the shell.
- The shape of opening (Aperture): Search for shells that have different shaped
openings so that your crab chooses the shell according to the preferences.
The shapes of openings that are found are round, D-shaped, oval, or more
of a slit shape.
- Type: It
is a brilliant idea to provide a variety in the type of hermit shells. But
ensure that your shell variety is somewhat similar to the one in which you
crab is residing.
- Quality: The
hermit crab shell which you buy can be cracked, have holes, or is not of
the best quality. Also, your crab must be capable of holding some moisture
that keeps the crab gill moist.
So, these are
just a few things that you have a look before getting a hermit crab shell.
Also, make sure that you boil the shells for a few minutes and then drain them
and let them cool thoroughly before offering them to your crab.
Also Read: How to Clean Your Hermit Crab Shells?
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