What is so unique about hermit crabs when it comes to there homes?
Answer (1)
What is unique about hermit crabs regarding their homes is that they do not produce their own shells. Instead, they occupy empty shells from other animals, usually empty snail shells, to protect their soft and vulnerable abdomens. As they grow, hermit crabs must find and move into larger shells.Additionally, hermit crabs often engage in an interesting behavior called shell exchanging or shell vacancy chains: when a crab finds a new, better-fitting shell, it may line up with other crabs in order of size and exchange shells sequentially, each moving into a shell that better fits it. This behavior helps them find optimal protection while minimizing conflict.They also modify and remodel shells to better suit their needs, making them lighter or altering their interiors. This unique behavior of living in, modifying, and exchanging shells is central to their survival and distinct from most other crustaceans.
