Hermit Crab Question

[Mike 1911A1]

I was wondering, do hermit crabs molt? Either they molt or something in the tank tore one of mine apart?

Mike

 

[littlemannin]

Yes.

 

[Sk8r]

All crustaceans molt. Their shells can't grow. A hermit molt looks just like the real hermit, particularly the scarlets, with only a little disturbance of the backside to show how the crab got out. If you see a crab or shrimp sitting still for days, leave him/her alone if at all possible. It's not good for them to move when their new shell is soft: they're terribly vulnerable during that period and often hide out for a couple of weeks, persuading the owner that they're dead. This happens also to be the only time they mate---but don't hold out hope of having any survive. The fish are just too quick.

 

[Mike 1911A1]

Thanks Sk8r. Good info.

Mike