HCA: Hermit Crab Association

What should a crab look like when it is fully closed in its shell? How far back should it be?

Maxwell changed after his surface molt, out of too-big pants -- but into even bigger ones! Does anyone have a crab who consistently chooses massive pants? Do I need to be sure I'm providing a range of appropriately sized pants if he only wears the giant ones?

I don't have any good pictures, sorry! It depends on the crab but they should sit a little bit back- not super in but also not where the claw is OUTSIDE the shell. (that means it's too small!)
I like to keep both smaller and larger shells in my tank (which also works out because my crabs, although somewhat similar in size, are still different.) Mine have definitely changed into the wrong size shells before. If you are providing a good amount and variation of shells, you have nothing to worry about! They can change whenever they want to. Some are just stubborn, ESPECIALLY E's (from what I have heard...I do not personally own any E's.)
Hopefully this eases your mind!

This shell might be a bit small for Eugene but he’s always favored small pants. Correct size you’d only see his big claw “closing the door” (I have tons of shells.. this is a choice he made)


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