HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hi everyone! One of my crabs is wearing a new shell on a daily basis...sometimes changing shells a couple times a day. She can't seem to decide between three shells. I think it's rather cute and amusing...but I'm concerned that she really is having a hard time finding a good fit. Is this normal? Is it harmful? Do I need to get more shells?

If it's a PP (Coenobita Clypeatus) that's totally normal. Some species of crab are just shell shoppers! A have a micro rug who I watched change shells 8 times in one day. How many shells do you have though?

It's fine! It's like when you go shopping and try on new clothes... here's an example....

You try on a green shirt- This is nice...
You try on a blue shirt- Do I like this better....?
You try on a red shirt- Eww! What did that green shirt look like agin...

Your crab just can't make up it's mind. It's completely typical. But, if you don't have enough shells in your 'tat then please do get some more!

LOL...you guys are funny! I'm glad to hear that it's normal. Does PP mean purple pincher? If so, that's what I think mine are. And as a matter of fact, I counted the shells and I only have five shells for two crabs to share. So, I think I do need to go get some more.

Yes, PP stands for purple pincher. As a general rule of thumb you should have 3 - 5 shells per crab of the proper size.

Wow! Yes, I do need more shells. Thanks guys!

It's funny, one of my crabs has been doing that too! Also, most PPs especially like turbo shells, so when you get more shells you may want a few of those.

I think it's really cute So what are turbo shells? I've never heard of those. They have the roundish snail shells right now. But I'm going to get them some more. Actually I was just at Petco looking. They didn't have much of a selection and they said they will get another shipment on Wednesday.

Shells from the pet store usually aren't too good of quality, although you can find some good finds. Another option is to look at the shells at Wal*Mart or craftstores. They usually come in little baskets for decorations. Another option is to get them from online. There are a few members on this site with shells and I like to use Naples Seashell Company.

A turbo shell is a very spiral-y shell that is pretty round. Here is one example of a turbo, but they come in many varieties and colors.

Thanks! What a great website...it shows you how to measure the openings and everything. They have a great selection too. Thanks for the advice...the shells at Petco did feel a bit flimsy. I didn't like the openings of most of them either. They were more like long slits and I think the round openings are better for them. I think I will check out a local craft store before buying online. I want to be able to really look at the shells before buying them. I never would have thought to check a craft store though. Thanks!

I got two bags for 1.99 each with many shells in that I could use also some shells to serve snacks in as well, I just did my tat over deep clean and that was also the best place to get fake plants for the tat.

You guys are a helpful bunch! If any of you get a chance, check out my posting in "crabitat conditions". I could really use some of your wisdom there too! I have some concerns about the very large crabitat I'm planning to set up. I have a 46 gallon tank sitting here right now that I want to use. My brother kept a snake in it and I am disinfecting it with white vinegar....it was very yucky!

Hmmm....I guess I will have room for plants in my new crabitat! Did you say you got yours online or at a craft store?

I made sure they were mostly plastic and silk no metal wires. They will rust through in the humid environment.
I got this cool plastic grass mat it has holes so my crabs can dig through it if they want but it looks so cool like grass growing and they run through it all the time. It is a hiding place for them.

lol The grass sounds like fun! I'll have to look for something like that when I get my big tank set up. I wonder if you can put real plants in there? Maybe those little tiny Japanese trees? I guess you'd have to make sure it's not toxic if they decide to chomp on it.

For now, I just got them a whole bunch of new shells from the craft store. These shells are very nice, but kind of thick. They certainly won't break or chip easily. I just hope they aren't too heavy for them to wear.