HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I purchased another hermit crab last Friday, in which I've kept him in a critter carrier ISO with shells, moss and food for a week. I introduced him this morning to my colony ( currently 4 with one buried. ( this new guy would be in a row with my second biggest)
20 gallon high,
Crabbing for 11 months
7 inches of Eco and sand sand castle consistency
Moss pit
Instant ocean pool, stress coat de chlorinated pool
Plastic plants and driftwood suspended all around the tank
I have close 40 shells, 10-15 would work for the newbie
Humidity and temp - perfect
Food - dried shrimp, coconut, baby carrots, fruits, clovers, egg shells, seeds, honey...

So he meets my little guy who I've had for a while. Right away he raises his legs and bats at him. I wasn't concerned since the hierarchy was just beginning to be worked on between them all.
Then he meets my hermit who is practically the same size. Well the newbie meets him in the corner, they both raise their legs and the newbie begins grab his shell and rolling him around. I'm assuming it was a shell fight.
He has not met Wooks, my jumbo

Just curious what you all think. I'll be spending the next few hours of the day around them, so I can monitor them but Im still concerned of course

One more thing, he is dark red, black tips are gone and very worn. He does have hair. Seems he is due for a molt, which may be a factor

Normal dominance display behaviors. Just watch him for actively trying to rip another crab out of it's shell.

Make sure there are plenty of good foods for them.

It sounds like you have lots of shells, as long as they are the correct type, you're good.

One thing I will note: A jumbo needs 15-20 gallons of space just for itself and a tank that is at least 18" wide. You may consider upgrading to a larger tank in order to provide all of your crabs with plenty of room.



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