Adopting a cannibalistic crab?

[Skymall007]

I have been on the lookout for a pp for bluebug since the death of upsidedown. Out of my three crabs he is the only pp. I think he is molting now. On craigslist someone in my area is posting an ad for their hermit that ate his friend. They seem to know crab care and thus you must send a picture of your setup. They said that they think their crab dug up the other during a molt. I just don't know about trusting a cannibal. I don't want to put my other crabs at risk. Maybe he could live alone with supervised visitation rights?

[CallaLily]

I think it's more likely something was lacking in their care. Protein, proper substrate, extra shells. I would adopt him (provided you have the space) and isolate him in proper conditions. Let him get his fill of extra shells and good food. Leave him in those conditions until he completes a successful molt, then try him out in the main tank with your other crabs. Good luck!

[wodesorel]

Exactly what Calla says. I've taken in crabs from similar situations and after a full stomach and a molt they're back to being normal PPs. Just because someone "seems to know" doesn't mean they do. Out of all the adoptions I've done - some of them from other HCA members - only one adoption had the standard of care that I provide to my own crabs. Substrate that is extremely low, a commercial diet, and too small water dishes are common even among people who read the care guides! If you're in doubt, ask them for a photo of their enclosure as well as providing one of your own. That should answer a lot of questions about the why behind the crab being dug up.

[Skymall007]

Thank you guys so much