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Flat Claw Hermit Crab

Flat claw hermit crab

Pagurus pollicaris

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Fun Facts

Hermit crabs are always looking for a larger shell to inhabit. 

Species Type:

Invertebrates

Common Name(s):

Flat claw hermit crab

Size:

Flat claw hermit crabs grow to a maximum length of 2 inches (5 centimeters).

Diet:

Hermit crabs eat algae, marine debris and other tiny particles.

Range & Habitat:

Found in grass flats, sandy and rocky bottom habitats, flat claw hermit crabs are common in the Gulf of Mexico.

Details:

Hermit crabs rely on abandoned shells for protection, and they are known to “shop” for a new shell as they grow, a behavior known as “shell swapping”. Their right claw is much larger than their left, which is typically used for defense and carrying their shells.