Common Hermit Crab - Pagurus bernhardus
The Common Hermit Crab – Pagurus bernhardus – is found on most sorts of bottom from shallow to deep water. Like all hermit crabs, they have soft bodies and need to occupy an empty shell for protection. When large like this one, they usually inhabit whelk shells. Behind the crab can be seen the egg mass which hermit crabs carry as strings attached to their underparts. All hermit crabs are opportunistic feeders and will eat virtually anything. This one is feeding on a dead fish.
Ref:
Date:
Location:
North Sea - St. Abbs Marine Reserve
Photographer:
Common Hermit Crab - Pagurus bernhardus
The Common Hermit Crab – Pagurus bernhardus – is found on most sorts of bottom from shallow to deep water. Like all hermit crabs, they have soft bodies and need to occupy an empty shell for protection. When large like this one, they usually inhabit whelk shells. Behind the crab can be seen the egg mass which hermit crabs carry as strings attached to their underparts. All hermit crabs are opportunistic feeders and will eat virtually anything. This one is feeding on a dead fish.
Ref:
Date:
Location:
North Sea - St. Abbs Marine Reserve
Photographer:
Common Hermit Crab - Pagurus bernhardus
The Common Hermit Crab – Pagurus bernhardus – is found on most sorts of bottom from shallow to deep water. Like all hermit crabs, they have soft bodies and need to occupy an empty shell for protection. When large like this one, they usually inhabit whelk shells. Behind the crab can be seen the egg mass which hermit crabs carry as strings attached to their underparts. All hermit crabs are opportunistic feeders and will eat virtually anything. This one is feeding on a dead fish.
Ref:
Date:
Location:
North Sea - St. Abbs Marine Reserve
Photographer: