The hermit crab – a tale of friendship

The hermit crab – a tale of friendship

The hermit crab

Eupagurus, commonly called the hermit crab is one of the most amazing crabs found in nature. It lives in empty shells as it grows. Hermit crabs and sea-anemones often form a close association, termed commensalism (picture on the right). Sea-anemones live upon the molluscan shell, while hermit crab inside it. Sea-anemone protects the hermit crab by keeping its enemies away by its offensive odour and unpalatable taste. In return, the hermit crab carries the sea-anemone from place to place, providing varieties of food. Awesome friendships are created from mutual needs like this.