HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I had my smallest crab go down toward the end of November and he still hasn't come up yet. Is it possible that he is still molting? He's quite small, his shell opening is a little smaller then 1/2". The depth of the sand is about 6" if the unthinkable happened would that be enough to cover the scent?

Any input would be appreciated.

There have been larges and jumbos who stayed down for 8 months, my three large guys have been down for 2. But that much time for such a small crab doesn't sound normal I would dig if I were you

At that age you can go months without seeing them. I had a very small crab (Firefly) who I only say about six or eight times the entire first year I had him. He would come up a few nights to eat and drink and would spend the rest of the month molting. It was crazy! I love them when they're that small, but their only goal is to grow big as fast as possible. I don't think it's terribly unusual that you haven't seen him yet.

Try peaking in the tank very late at night if you're ever able to - between 2am and 4am, and looking for him then. It'll be the most likely time to spot him.

Thanks for your input, I'll keep a look out but I'm usually up quite late and haven't seen any movement. If he was dead I'd be able to smell it through the sand right?

Sadly, no. You wouldn't know until the next time you had to go digging or cleaning.

Mussles is too. However, I can occasionally spot him under the sand. And usually, when a crab passes away, I've heard that they put off a very unpleasant smell, similar to a rotting fish. But, I'm not too entirely sure if that's true. Are there any signs on his location under the sand?