HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hi guys,
One of my larger PP's who is fairly new came up from a molt about a week and a half ago. I noticed that he had dropped his BP, but other than that he was extremely healthy and active. There were no other crabs up in the tank at that time, so I let him be but watched him closely. He is eating very well and as even moved many of the decorations around the tank. However, I began to notice that he wasn't moving much beginning yesterday afternoon. I picked him up and found him drawn very far back into his shell, so much so that I thought it was empty upon first glance. Thinking he needed to change shells, I placed him near the shell shop and woke up this morning to find that he had not moved. When I pick him up, he moves inside the shell, but he doesn't come out. Could he be stuck? The shell fits him well, as he's a pretty large crab and the shell (green turbo) has about an inch-wide opening. Any suggestions? Should I ISO him? Thanks!


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Just a side note, this guy was a rescue from a souvenir shop so he was not in the best health to begin with. This could be another variable to help identify the problem.


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He isn't stuck, he could just be stressed! I would put some honey and peanut butter in there and place him by it, and leave him be for a few days. If he still doesn't move, then maybe try giving him a quick bath? He also could just be a shy crab!

Since he dropped his BP and is slowing down, this does sound like classic Post Purchase Synrdome. Make sure he has the right heat and humidity levels and try to give him as much space as possible so he can be stress free. Unfortunately it is very common in new crabs. i wouldn't ISO him unless you have a spare tank that is set up correctly and completely, otherwise it may just stress him more. We have an article about PPS here: viewtopic.php?f=67&t=92531