critter question

[El Scorcho]

I'm thinking of getting some small hermits for my 29G.
I'm concerned about them outgrowing their shells. Should this be a
genuine concern? Do I have to have a bunch of small shells in there for
them if they outgrow them?

[Billy]

"El Scorcho" > wrote in message
oups.com...
> I'm thinking of getting some small hermits for my 29G.
> I'm concerned about them outgrowing their shells. Should this be a
> genuine concern? Do I have to have a bunch of small shells in there
> for
> them if they outgrow them?

Probably, yes. Determine the species of crab you wish to have, and
the adult\maximum size. If the ones you get are less than that size,
you're going to need to provide homes for them. Hermits are always on
the lookout for a better shell, I've seen them switch shells several
times in a few minutes. Many LFS's will carry old shells of various
sizes, as well as hobby shops. Be sure that the shell has not been
painted or shelaqued, this could deteriorate into your water. In the
US, there is a growing fad with terrestrial hermits, as well as a
growing market for painted and engraved shells for them, so watch
out.

b

[George Patterson]

El Scorcho wrote:
>
> I'm thinking of getting some small hermits for my 29G.
> I'm concerned about them outgrowing their shells. Should this be a
> genuine concern?

Yes.

> Do I have to have a bunch of small shells in there for
> them if they outgrow them?

Yes.

George Patterson
Whosoever bloweth not his own horn, the same shall remain unblown.

[Ray Martini]

I'm not sure about Scarlets but Blue Legged Hermits are always looking for
new digs.

Try this guy on Ebay. I've bought a bunch of Hermit Crab shells. Excellent
quality and price.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=46308&item=4368849863&rd=1

Maybe not these exact shells, but check out his other shells. Lots to choose
from.


"El Scorcho" > wrote in message
oups.com...
> I'm thinking of getting some small hermits for my 29G.
> I'm concerned about them outgrowing their shells. Should this be a
> genuine concern? Do I have to have a bunch of small shells in there for
> them if they outgrow them?
>

[George Patterson]

Ray Martini wrote:
>
> Try this guy on Ebay. I've bought a bunch of Hermit Crab shells. Excellent
> quality and price.

You can pick up bags of small shells in craft shops for 2 or 3 dollars. I got a
bunch at a place called "A.C. Moore."

George Patterson
Whosoever bloweth not his own horn, the same shall remain unblown.

[Billy]

"George Patterson" > wrote in message
news:USI3e.1724$4b.1466@trndny09...
> Ray Martini wrote:
>>
>> Try this guy on Ebay. I've bought a bunch of Hermit Crab shells.
>> Excellent quality and price.
>
> You can pick up bags of small shells in craft shops for 2 or 3
> dollars. I got a bunch at a place called "A.C. Moore."
>


Take care. They are frequently treated or lacquered. The ones in the
craft shops 'round here are, at any rate.

billy