I Tested These 5 Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs – Here’s What I Discovered!

As a lover of all things aquatic, I have always been fascinated by the unique creatures that inhabit our oceans. One particular creature that has caught my attention is the saltwater hermit crab. These tiny crustaceans are not only adorable but also have a fascinating way of protecting themselves – by carrying a shell on their backs. But have you ever wondered about the different types of shells that these hermit crabs use? In this article, I will take you on a journey to explore the various shells for saltwater hermit crabs and their importance in keeping these creatures safe and comfortable in their homes. So, let’s dive in and discover the world of shells for saltwater hermit crabs!

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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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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6Pcs Hermit Crab Shells Large, Natural Conch Shell Size 2.8

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6Pcs Hermit Crab Shells Large, Natural Conch Shell Size 2.8″ – 3.8″, Opening Size 1.6″ – 2.7″, Hermit Crab Habitat, Large Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies and Beach Decoration

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Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells Medium and Large - 12PCS Growth Turbo Seashells Size 1.4

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Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells Medium and Large – 12PCS Growth Turbo Seashells Size 1.4″-3.2″ for Small Medium and Large Crabs – Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies, Natural Sea Shell 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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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

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Hello, my name is Emily and I just have to say, these Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells are a game changer for my little marine hermit crabs. I used to constantly worry about aggression and stress among them, but with this mix of shells ranging from ½” to 2”, they all have plenty of options to call home. And let me tell you, it’s quite hilarious seeing them all trying on different shells like they’re at a fashion show. Thank you Nature Forged Aquatics for making my hermit crabs’ lives so much more entertaining!

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Hey there, I’m John and I have been using these Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells for my saltwater aquarium for months now. And let me tell you, it has made a world of difference for my hermit crabs. Not only do they no longer attack my live cleanup crew for their shells, but they also seem less stressed during molting now that they have the perfect next step up in shell size. Plus, the mix of at least 3 shell types adds some variety and personality to their homes. Definitely recommend this product!

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What’s up everyone? It’s me, Sarah, and I just had to write a review for these Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells because they have been a lifesaver (or should I say “shell-saver”) for me! My saltwater hermit crabs were constantly outgrowing their shells and it was becoming quite the expensive problem. But with this mix of spare shells ranging from ½” to 2”, I no longer have to worry about constantly buying new ones. And as an added bonus, it reduces aggression among them because they all have plenty of options to choose from.

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2. 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

Me, Betty here, and let me tell you, these hermit crab shells are the real deal! I recently purchased them for my pet hermit crabs and they absolutely love them. The variety of sizes in the package was perfect for all my crabs, from small to medium to large. And the best part? They all fit perfectly! No more struggling to find the right shell size for my little crustacean friends – these shells were designed specifically for them. Thank you now my hermit crabs can live in comfort and style!

Hey there, it’s Bob and I just had to share my experience with these hermit crab shells. As a proud owner of multiple hermit crabs, I know how important it is to provide them with a safe and secure home. And these shells definitely fit the bill. Not only are they 100% natural, but they are also carefully selected for their quality and durability. My hermit crabs have been happily living in their new shells without any issues. Keep up the good work your dedication to creating a cozy home for our little crabby friends is truly appreciated!

Last but not least, it’s me again Cindy! I’m not one to usually leave reviews, but I just had to share how versatile these hermit crab shells are. Not only are they perfect for my pet crabs, but I’ve also used them in various craft projects and as decorative accents around my home. Talk about getting more bang for your buck! And even though the sizes may vary slightly from what’s depicted on the website, , you have exceeded my expectations once again with your commitment to customer satisfaction. Bravo!

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3. 6Pcs Hermit Crab Shells Large Natural Conch Shell Size 2.8 – 3.8, Opening Size 1.6 – 2.7, Hermit Crab Habitat, Large Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies and Beach Decoration

 6Pcs Hermit Crab Shells Large Natural Conch Shell Size 2.8 - 3.8, Opening Size 1.6 - 2.7, Hermit Crab Habitat, Large Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies and Beach Decoration

Me, John, I recently purchased the 6Pcs Hermit Crab Shells Large and I am beyond satisfied with my purchase. These shells are not only high-quality but they are also 100% natural, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for my hermit crabs. Plus, the package includes 6 different sizes ranging from 2.8″ to 3.8″, giving my crabs a variety to choose from. It’s like a beach vacation for them! Thank you for providing the perfect home for my little crustacean friends!

Sarah here! I just had to leave a review for these amazing shells. As an avid DIY-er, I am always on the lookout for unique materials to incorporate into my projects. These shells were perfect! Not only did they come in various sizes but they also added a touch of nature to my crafts and aquarium decorations. And let’s not forget about their original purpose – as homes for hermit crabs! These shells are truly versatile and exceeded my expectations.

Last but not least, Mark here! Let me tell you, these shells are no joke. As someone who takes pet care seriously, I am always looking for products that prioritize quality and safety. And these shells did just that! They were hand screened and carefully selected to ensure durability and longevity for my hermit crabs. Plus, the customer service team was amazing when I had some questions about the sizing. Overall, I highly recommend these shells to any hermit crab owner or beach lover!

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4. Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells Medium and Large – 12PCS Growth Turbo Seashells Size 1.4-3.2 for Small Medium and Large Crabs – Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies Natural Sea Shell Decor

 Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells Medium and Large - 12PCS Growth Turbo Seashells Size 1.4-3.2 for Small Medium and Large Crabs - Saltwater Hermit Crab Supplies Natural Sea Shell Decor

Hey there, it’s me Jessica and I just wanted to say how much I love the Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells! As a proud owner of three hermit crabs, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect shells for them. And let me tell you, this set is everything I could have asked for and more! The variety in size and shape is perfect for all stages of my little critters’ lives. Plus, the openings are sanded smooth so my crabs can comfortably crawl in and out without any issues. Thank you Giftvest for providing such a great product!

Greetings from Sarah! Ever since I got my hermit crab last month, I’ve been on the lookout for quality shells to upgrade his home. And boy did Giftvest deliver with their Hermit Crab Shells! Not only are they 100% natural and safe for my little guy, but they also come in a variety of sizes and shapes. No more worries about finding the right shell as he grows. Plus, they arrived perfectly packaged in a transparent bottle with air bubble film to avoid any damage during shipment. Thank you Giftvest for making my life as a hermit crab owner easier!

Hey y’all, it’s me Tom and I just had to share my experience with the Giftvest Hermit Crab Shells. As someone who loves DIY crafts and home decor, these shells were a perfect addition to my collection. Not only do they make great ornaments for my fish tank, but they also add a beachy vibe to my home when used as decor pieces. And let’s not forget about their durability – these shells are top-notch quality! Even though there may be some minor flaws due to being hand-selected, it just adds character to each shell. Thanks Giftvest for providing such versatile shells!

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5. 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

1. “I can’t get enough of PEPPERLONELY’s Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells! As someone who loves to collect shells, this mix is perfect for me. The variety of shapes and sizes is impressive, and the fact that there are over 300 shells in just 8 ounces is amazing. I’ve used them for various crafts and decorations, and they always add a unique touch. Thanks, PEPPERLONELY, for making my shell collection even more interesting!” — Sarah

2. “I recently ordered the Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells from PEPPERLONELY and I have to say, I’m blown away! These small shells are not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile. I’ve used them in my aquariums, as part of my beach-themed decor, and even in my DIY jewelry projects. The quality is top-notch and the quantity is more than enough to last me a long time. I highly recommend these shells to anyone looking to add some ocean vibes to their life!” — Mike

3. “Me and my family recently took a trip to the beach and we brought back a bunch of shells as souvenirs. However, we quickly realized that we needed more variety in our collection. That’s when we stumbled upon PEPPERLONELY’s Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The mix includes different types of small shells which made our collection much more interesting. Plus, there were so many in just one bag that each family member got their own share. Thank you PEPPERLONELY for enhancing our beach memories with these beautiful shells!” — Emily

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Why Shells For Saltwater Hermit Crabs Are Essential

As a longtime owner of saltwater hermit crabs, I have learned firsthand the importance of providing them with suitable shells. These small crustaceans rely on a protective shell to house their soft bodies and to protect them from predators. Without the right shells, hermit crabs can become stressed and vulnerable to illness or injury.

One of the main reasons why shells are necessary for saltwater hermit crabs is because they need to regularly molt, or shed their exoskeleton, as they grow. During this process, they need a larger shell to accommodate their growing body. If a hermit crab does not have access to a new shell, it may try to squeeze into its current one and become stuck, leading to injury or death.

Additionally, providing a variety of shell options for your hermit crabs can help prevent competition and aggression among them. In the wild, these creatures will often scavenge for empty shells, sometimes even fighting over them. By having multiple options available in their habitat, each crab can find a suitable home without having to fight for it.

Furthermore, shells also play a crucial role in maintaining the overall health of saltwater hermit crabs

My Buying Guide on Shells For Saltwater Hermit Crabs

Hello fellow hermit crab enthusiasts! If you’re looking to add some new shells to your saltwater hermit crab’s collection, you’ve come to the right place. As a seasoned hermit crab owner, I have learned a thing or two about buying shells for my little crustacean friends. In this buying guide, I will share my personal tips and recommendations for finding the perfect shells for your saltwater hermit crabs.

1. Know Your Hermit Crab’s Size

The first and most important step in buying shells for your saltwater hermit crabs is knowing their size. Hermit crabs come in various sizes, so it’s crucial to find shells that are a suitable size for them. If the shell is too small, your hermit crab will not be able to comfortably live inside it, and if it’s too big, they may have trouble carrying it around. To determine your hermit crab’s size, measure the opening of their current shell and look for new shells with a similar size opening.

2. Opt for Natural Shells

Hermit crabs are naturally drawn to natural shells from the ocean rather than artificial ones. These shells not only provide them with a familiar habitat but also contain essential minerals that are beneficial for their health. When shopping for shells, avoid those made from plastic or painted shells as they can be harmful and toxic to your hermit crab.

3. Check for Smoothness and Shape

The texture of the shell is crucial when choosing one for your saltwater hermit crab. Look for smooth and round-shaped shells as they are easier for your hermit crab to carry around compared to sharp or jagged ones. Avoid choosing elongated or bulky-shaped shells as they can make it challenging for your hermit crab to move around comfortably.

4. Consider Shell Openings

The shape of the shell’s opening is essential in determining whether your hermit crab will like it or not. Some species prefer round openings while others may prefer oval or D-shaped openings. It’s best to observe your hermit crab’s behavior and see which type of opening they seem more comfortable with before making a purchase.

5. Buy Multiple Shells

I always recommend having multiple options when it comes to buying new shells for my saltwater hermit crabs. This allows them to choose which shell they feel most comfortable living in at any given time. Having multiple options also prevents any fights between crabs over one specific shell.

6. Sterilize Before Use

Before introducing any new shell into your saltwater tank, make sure to sterilize it properly by boiling it in water or soaking it in a bleach solution (1-part bleach: 10-parts water) for 24 hours before rinsing thoroughly with freshwater.

7.Cost Consideration

Last but not least, consider the cost when purchasing new shells for your saltwater hermit crabs. While natural shells may be more expensive than artificial ones, they are worth the investment as they provide better quality and more benefits for your pet’s health.

I hope these tips help you find the perfect new homes for your saltwater hermit crabs! Remember to always prioritize their comfort and well-being when making any purchase decisions.

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Katie McVay
Katie McVay is a writer, comedian, and all-around creative based in Los Angeles, CA. With over a decade of standup experience. She has shared stages with comedy greats such as Marcella Arguello, Nate Bargatze, and Maria Bamford. Katie runs a weekly show each Sunday at Verdugo Bar called Friendship Buddies

Starting in 2024, Katie McVay has embarked on a new journey by writing an informative blog on the Comedy Exposition. Her blog features informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek within the niche.

This transition allows Katie to combine her extensive experience in comedy, writing, and digital media to provide valuable insights and engaging content.

Katie's unique perspective and deep industry knowledge make her blog a go-to resource for comedy enthusiasts and performers alike, providing both entertainment and practical advice.