In: Shells & Molting

What Is Molting? Molting (ecdysis) is the biological process by which a crustacean sheds its exoskeleton in order to grow. Land hermit crabs, like all arthropods, do not grow continuously. Their rigid outer shell must be replaced periodically with a larger one. Molting is not a single event. It is a hormonally regulated, multi-stage physiological cycle involving the nervous system, endocrine system, epidermis, and internal tissues. Understanding molting properly requires understanding the internal control system that drives it. The Hormonal Control of Molting Molting is regulated by a balance between inhibitory and stimulatory hormones. The key components are: The X-organ–sinus gland complex in the eyestalk produces Molt-Inhibiting Hormone (MIH), which suppresses molting during the intermolt phase. TheRead More →

In: Hermit Crab Care

We are sorry that you are experiencing a hermit crab care emergency. Below are some links and information to our most commonly experienced emergency situations. Aggressive hermit crab I purchased new hermit crabs: PPS (Post Purchase Stress) Limb loss Mites or pests within crabitat Is my Hermit crab dead or molting? My hermit crab has left it’s shell and is naked Caring for hermit crabs with limb loss or other deformities After reading these items if you still need some help, please visit the Land Hermit Crab Owners Society Facebook Group.Read More →