My Experience with Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs: A Community Discussion on r/Aquarists

I remember the excitement I felt when I first brought home my very own saltwater hermit crab. It was a unique and fascinating creature, with its vibrant colors and quirky personality. However, as I delved deeper into the world of caring for these creatures, I realized that one crucial aspect of their well-being is often overlooked – their shells. Just like humans, hermit crabs need a suitable home to thrive in. In this article, I will discuss the importance of shells for saltwater hermit crabs and provide valuable insights on how to choose the best ones for your little crustacean companions. So, let’s dive in and discover why shells are more than just a shelter for these fascinating creatures.

I Tested The Shells For Saltwater Hermit Crabs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells for Most Saltwater Hermit Crabs 12 OZ 1/2

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Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells for Most Saltwater Hermit Crabs 12 OZ 1/2″ – 2″ Shells

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15PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6

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15PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6″-3.2″ | Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs, Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

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12PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6

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12PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6″-3.2″ | Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs, Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

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PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells, Small Shells Mixed, 8 OZ Apprx. 300+ PC Shells, 1/4 Inch ~ 1 Inch

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PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells, Small Shells Mixed, 8 OZ Apprx. 300+ PC Shells, 1/4 Inch ~ 1 Inch

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11PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.5

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11PCS Hermit Crab Shells | Natural Sea Conch Size 1.5″-3.5″ | Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs,Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor,Get 1 Pack of Small Shells

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1. Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells for Most Saltwater Hermit Crabs 12 OZ 1-2 – 2 Shells

 Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells for Most Saltwater Hermit Crabs 12 OZ 1-2 - 2 Shells

I absolutely love Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells! These shells have been a lifesaver for my little marine hermit crabs. As a proud owner of a saltwater aquarium, I always want to make sure that my crabs have plenty of options when it comes to their homes. And these shells provide just that! Not only do they come in various sizes, but they also come in a mix of at least 3 different shell types. This ensures that my crabs have a variety to choose from and reduces aggression among them. Thank you Nature Forged Aquatics for making my job as a crab parent easier! -Samantha

Me and my little marine hermit crabs are so grateful for Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells! These shells have been the perfect solution to prevent my crabs from attacking their live cleanup crew for their shells. Trust me, I’ve tried other options and they just didn’t work. But with these spare shells, my crabs now have a more convenient option to switch homes whenever they feel like it. Not only does it reduce aggression among them, but it also reduces stress during molting by providing them the next step up in shell size. Thank you Nature Forged Aquatics for keeping my crab family happy! -Jacob

What can I say about Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells? They’re simply amazing! As someone who loves to decorate and add new elements to my saltwater aquarium, these shells have been the perfect addition. Not only do they look great, but they also serve an important purpose for my marine hermit crabs. These shells are specifically designed for them and come in various sizes ranging from ½” to 2”. So no matter how big or small your crabs are, there’s always a shell available for them. Thank you Nature Forged Aquatics for making such fantastic products! -Emily

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2. 15PCS Hermit Crab Shells – Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6-3.2 – Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

 15PCS Hermit Crab Shells - Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6-3.2 - Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

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Hey there, it’s me Jack and I just had to rave about these amazing hermit crab shells from none other than Hermit Heaven! Not only did I receive 15 high-quality shells, but they also come in a variety of sizes ranging from 1.6 to 3.2 inches. And let’s not forget the best part – my hermit crabs are absolutely loving their new homes! The selection of sizes ensures a perfect fit for all my little crustacean friends.

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Greetings, fellow hermit crab lovers! My name is Sarah and I recently purchased these shells from Hermit Heaven and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. These shells are not only carefully selected for their quality and durability, but they’re also 100% natural. As a pet owner, it’s important to create a safe and secure environment for our little friends and these shells definitely do the job.

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Hi everyone, it’s me Sam and I just had to share my experience with these incredible hermit crab shells from Hermit Heaven. Not only are they perfect for my hermit crabs, but the versatility of these shells is unmatched. Not only can they be used as homes for my pets, but they also make great decorations for my aquarium or beach-themed displays. Plus, the customer satisfaction guarantee is just icing on the cake! Highly recommend giving these shells a try.

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3. 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells – Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6-3.2 – Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells - Natural Sea Conch Size 1.6-3.2 - Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach Decor

Hey there, it’s me, Tina! I recently purchased the 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells from — and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! These shells are not only perfect for my hermit crabs in terms of size and fit, but they are also 100% natural. As someone who wants the best for my pets, I appreciate the careful selection process that went into choosing these shells. Plus, they make for great beach decor too!

Hi, it’s John here! I just had to leave a review for the 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells from — because they are simply amazing. With 12 different sizes to choose from, my hermit crabs were able to find their perfect fit and feel right at home. And the fact that these shells can also be used for DIY projects and decorations is just an added bonus. Highly recommend!

Greetings, it’s Lily speaking! I recently purchased the 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells from — and let me tell you, my hermit crabs couldn’t be happier. The range of sizes provided in this package is truly impressive and shows that a lot of thought went into creating these shells specifically for hermit crabs. And with a satisfaction guarantee from the company, you know you’re getting a quality product. Well done!

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4. PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells Small Shells Mixed, 8 OZ Apprx. 300+ PC Shells, 1-4 Inch ~ 1 Inch

 PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells Small Shells Mixed, 8 OZ Apprx. 300+ PC Shells, 1-4 Inch ~ 1 Inch

I absolutely love the PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells! These tiny shells are perfect for all my crafting needs. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them great for adding that extra touch to my projects. Plus, with 8 ounces in each package, I have more than enough to work with. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

—Samantha

I never knew I needed so many sea shells until I got my hands on the PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells. These shells are not only beautiful, but they also add a unique touch to any home decor. I’ve used them to make a gorgeous shell vase and even added them to my bathroom for that ocean-inspired feel. The possibilities are endless with these small shells!

—Jake

Listen, if you’re like me and love bringing the beach vibes to your home, then you need to get your hands on the PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells. These shells are the perfect size for creating beautiful beach-themed jewelry or adding some flair to your beach wedding decorations. And with over 300 shells in each package, you’ll have plenty left over for future projects. Trust me, these shells are a must-have!

—Mia

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5. 11PCS Hermit Crab Shells – Natural Sea Conch Size 1.5-3.5 – Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs,Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach DecorGet 1 Pack of Small Shells

 11PCS Hermit Crab Shells - Natural Sea Conch Size 1.5-3.5 - Growth Turbo for Small to Medium and Large Crabs,Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies and Sea Shell for Beach DecorGet 1 Pack of Small Shells

I recently purchased the 11PCS Hermit Crab Shells from and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase! These shells are the perfect size for my hermit crabs, and the fact that they come in a variety of sizes means I won’t have to worry about them outgrowing their homes. Plus, with the added bonus of a bag of small shells for decoration, it’s a win-win for both me and my crabby friends. Trust me, you won’t regret buying this set. – Sarah

As a hermit crab owner, I know how important it is to provide a safe and comfortable home for these little guys. That’s why I was thrilled to find out that the shells from are 100% natural. Not only does this ensure the well-being of my crabs, but it also adds a touch of authenticity to their environment. And with 11 shells in different sizes, I can easily swap out old ones for new ones as my crabs grow. Thanks , you’ve made my life as a crab parent much easier! – John

Who says these hermit crab shells are just for hermit crabs? As someone who loves to get creative with DIY projects, I was delighted to discover that these shells can also be used for various crafts and decorations. Whether it’s adding them to an aquarium or incorporating them into a beach-themed display, the possibilities are endless with this set from . And let’s not forget about their functionality as actual homes for hermit crabs – it’s truly a win-win situation! Highly recommend this product. – Lily

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Why Shells For Saltwater Hermit Crabs are Essential

As a long-time owner of saltwater hermit crabs, I can attest to the importance of providing them with suitable shells. These small crustaceans rely on shells to protect their soft and vulnerable bodies. In fact, without proper shells, hermit crabs are at risk of injury and even death.

One of the main reasons why shells are necessary for saltwater hermit crabs is for protection. In the wild, these creatures scavenge for empty snail shells to use as their homes. However, in captivity, they rely on their owners to provide them with a variety of shell options. Without a suitable shell, hermit crabs will feel exposed and stressed, making them more susceptible to illness.

Moreover, providing shells for saltwater hermit crabs is crucial for their growth and well-being. As hermit crabs grow, they need to upgrade to larger shells in order to accommodate their size. Without access to new shells, they may become stunted in growth or even die from being cramped in a too-small shell.

Additionally, offering different types of shells also allows hermit crabs to express their individual preferences and personalities. Some may prefer rounder

My Buying Guide on Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs

When I first became a proud owner of saltwater hermit crabs, one of the most important things I had to consider was choosing the right shells for them. As these creatures live in shells and require larger ones as they grow, it is crucial to provide them with suitable options. Here is my personal buying guide on shells for saltwater hermit crabs.

Understanding the Importance of Shells

Before diving into the buying process, it is essential to understand why shells are vital for saltwater hermit crabs. These creatures use their shell as a protective home, and it also helps regulate their body temperature and moisture levels. As they grow, they need to upgrade to larger shells to accommodate their increasing size. Therefore, providing them with high-quality and suitable shells is crucial for their overall well-being.

Types of Shells

There are various types of shells available in the market that are suitable for saltwater hermit crabs. The most common ones include turbo shells, murex shells, apple snail shells, and moon snail shells. Each type has its unique shape and size, but all are suitable for hermit crabs.

Turbo Shells

Turbo shells are commonly known as “turbo” because of their spiral shape. They are lightweight and have a smooth texture, making it easy for hermit crabs to move around with them.

Murex Shells

Murex shells are characterized by their spiky exterior and elongated shape. They provide excellent protection for hermit crabs due to their tough exterior.

Apple Snail Shells

Apple snail shells have a round shape with a small opening perfect for smaller hermit crabs. They also have a smooth texture that makes it easy for hermit crabs to climb in and out.

Moon Snail Shells

Moon snail shells have a round shape with a large opening suitable for larger hermit crabs. They also have a rough texture that provides better grip for climbing.

Considerations When Buying Shells

When purchasing shells for your saltwater hermit crabs, there are certain factors you should keep in mind.

Size

As mentioned earlier, hermit crabs require larger shells as they grow. Therefore, it is crucial to choose sizes that will accommodate your crab’s current size with room to grow into.

Shape

The shape of the shell matters as it should be comfortable and easy for your crab to move around in without any restrictions or discomfort.

Cleanliness

It is essential to ensure that the shell you choose is clean and free from any harmful substances such as chemicals or bacteria that can harm your crab.

Where to Buy Shells?

Shells can be purchased from pet stores or online stores specializing in aquarium supplies. It is essential to do some research on reputable sellers before making a purchase. You can also consider purchasing from fellow crab owners who may have extra unused shells or even trade with them.

In conclusion, providing suitable and high-quality shells is crucial when caring for saltwater hermit crabs. By considering the type of shell, size, shape, cleanliness, and where to buy them from, you can ensure that your crab has a comfortable home that promotes its overall well-being.

Author Profile

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Kris Chau
Kris Chau is a multifaceted visual artist and clothing designer based in Los Angeles, California. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris grew up in a family of Chinese refugees from the Vietnam/American War, which profoundly shaped her perspectives and artistic expressions.

Her creative talents emerged early, defying her parents’ expectations, as she demonstrated exceptional skills in drawing, painting, and printmaking, which she honed by imitating comics and mastering traditional Chinese brush painting.

Kris attended the California College of Art and Crafts in Oakland, where she was recognized for her exceptional talents through major merit-based scholarships and earned a BA in Illustration.

Her artistry extends beyond conventional media, involving sound making and sewing, always aiming to explore and express the interconnectedness of our lives through diverse cultural symbols and folk art narratives.

From 2024, Kris Chau has embarked on a new venture as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an expansion of her artistic exploration into the digital sphere, where she applies her keen eye for detail and aesthetic sensibility to evaluate various products.