About hermit crabs...
Hermit crabs have soft bodies - but, just like other hard-shelled crustaceans, a hermit crab doesn't go unprotected. These crabs select empty seashells to use as homes, and they can retract themselves into their shells for protection from predators. Hermit crabs find empty shells left behind by other animals - these are recycled as new homes for the crabs! Sometimes, hermit crabs compete for shells, but several species have been shown to cooperate with one another. These crabs form groups, line up from biggest to smallest, and trade shells to help one another find a good-fitting shelter. Hermit crabs have five pairs of legs to help them travel and eat, and their eyes are attached to tall stalks that help them to see in multiple directions.
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See my interactive lesson,
Animal Survivors
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Meet the hermit crab...
"I suppose you could call my shell the original camper!
I have everything I need right here, in a tidy, attractive, mobile package - and you wouldn't believe the deal I got on this baby! My trade-in was a much smaller shell without all the great features this one has. Look at that finish! I've always wanted a snail shell, and now I can cruise in style.
The shell is the perfect shape to hold a little water and keep me wet while I'm on land, so I can breathe out of the ocean. Plus, this shell is hard enough to protect me from seagulls and any other dirty birds patrolling the shore. Boy, I can't wait to show this new shell to Larry, my crab friend from down the bank! He'll be green at the gills with envy, but I'll help him find a great deal on a new used model. I know all the best places to look for deals like this one!"
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