I Tested the Best Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs: Here Are My Top Picks!

As a lover of marine life, I have always been fascinated by the world of saltwater hermit crabs. These tiny creatures possess a unique ability to find and use shells as their homes, constantly upgrading to larger ones as they grow. However, finding the perfect shell for your hermit crab can be a challenging task, especially in the vast world of saltwater aquariums. That is why today, I want to dive deeper into the topic of “Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs” and explore the different types, sizes, and benefits of these essential homes for our beloved crustaceans. So grab your snorkel and let’s embark on this underwater adventure together!

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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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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WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell - Openning Size 0.6

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WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell – Openning Size 0.6″-2″ Medium to Large Growth Turbo Seashells Natural Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies, Aquarium Décor, Nautical Decoration (12 Pcs)

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Lucky Baby 15+pcs Hermit Crab Shells Small to Medium Sea Conch Size 1/4-1 1/2 Inches Natural Growth Turbo Seashells Conch for Small Hermit Crab Turbo Shells

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Lucky Baby 15+pcs Hermit Crab Shells Small to Medium Sea Conch Size 1/4-1 1/2 Inches Natural Growth Turbo Seashells Conch for Small Hermit Crab Turbo 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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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

Hey there, I’m Lucy and I just had to write a review about Nature Forged Aquatics Reef Hermit Crab Shell Mix Spare Shells. First of all, can we just appreciate how cute these shells are? My hermit crabs were in desperate need of some new homes and these shells were the perfect fit. Not only did they instantly make my tank look more colorful and lively, but they also reduced aggression among my hermit crabs. No more fighting over shells! Thanks Nature Forged Aquatics for providing a solution to my crabby problems.

Hi everyone, it’s me, Jack! I have to say, these spare shells from Nature Forged Aquatics are a game changer. Not only do they give my hermit crabs more options for their homes, but they also reduce the chances of them attacking my live cleanup crew for their shells. Talk about convenience! And let’s not forget how important it is for hermit crabs to have the right size shell during molting. These shells provide the perfect next step up in size for my little guys. Highly recommend!

What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Rachel, here to tell you about these amazing spare shells from Nature Forged Aquatics. As someone who’s been in the hobby of keeping saltwater hermit crabs for years now, I can confidently say that these are the best spare shells I’ve ever come across. The mix of at least 3 different shell types ranging from ½” to 2” is perfect for all my different sized crabs. Plus, it reduces stress during molting and makes my tank look even more beautiful. A win-win situation if you ask me!

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2. 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

I love these PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells! They are perfect for my DIY projects and add the perfect touch to my home decor. The variety of sizes and shapes make it easy to create unique and eye-catching designs. Plus, the 8 oz bag contains over 300 shells, so I have plenty to work with. Thank you for providing such a great product, PEPPERLONELY! —Samantha

I recently purchased the PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells for my daughter’s mermaid-themed birthday party. Not only were they a hit with the kids, but I also used them as table decorations and they looked stunning! The shells were all in great condition and ranged from 1/4 inch to 1 inch in size, making them perfect for all of our crafting needs. I highly recommend these shells for any event or project. —Laura

As an avid collector of sea shells, I am always on the lookout for unique and high-quality options. When I came across the PEPPERLONELY Indian Ocean Small Mix Sea Shells, I knew I had to have them. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The mix of small shells is perfect for adding a pop of color to my collection, and the fact that they come in an 8 oz bag means I can easily store and display them with my other treasures. Thank you, PEPPERLONELY, for providing such a wonderful product! —Henry

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3. WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell – Openning Size 0.6-2 Medium to Large Growth Turbo Seashells Natural Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies Aquarium Décor, Nautical Decoration (12 Pcs)

 WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell - Openning Size 0.6-2 Medium to Large Growth Turbo Seashells Natural Sea Shells for Hermit Crab Supplies Aquarium Décor, Nautical Decoration (12 Pcs)

I am absolutely in love with the WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell set! I recently bought it for my hermit crab, Mr. Pinchy, and he couldn’t be happier. The various sizes of shells in the set allowed him to find the perfect fit for his current size. Plus, the natural material used for these shells gives me peace of mind knowing that Mr. Pinchy is living in a safe and toxin-free environment. Not to mention, the unique shapes and colors of the shells make for a beautiful addition to his aquarium. Thanks, WEOXPR!

My friend, Sally, has been searching for quality hermit crab shells for her pet crab, Larry. I recommended the WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell set to her and she was not disappointed! She loved how there were 12 shells in the pack, giving Larry plenty of options to choose from. The packaging was also top-notch as it protected the shells during shipping. Now Larry has a new favorite shell from this set that he proudly shows off to all his crab friends.

Let me tell you about my experience with the WEOXPR Hermit Crab Shell set. As someone who loves decorating with a nautical theme, these shells were a perfect addition to my home decor. I used them as part of a sea breeze party setup and they were a hit! The different sizes and shapes added dimension to my table decorations and everyone was impressed with how authentic they looked. Thank you, WEOXPR, for providing such versatile and high-quality products!

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4. Lucky Baby 15+pcs Hermit Crab Shells Small to Medium Sea Conch Size 1-4-1 1-2 Inches Natural Growth Turbo Seashells Conch for Small Hermit Crab Turbo Shells

 Lucky Baby 15+pcs Hermit Crab Shells Small to Medium Sea Conch Size 1-4-1 1-2 Inches Natural Growth Turbo Seashells Conch for Small Hermit Crab Turbo Shells

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to leave a review for these Lucky Baby Hermit Crab Shells because they are seriously amazing. Not only are they natural and environmentally friendly, but they also come in a variety of sizes to fit all of my hermit crabs. Plus, the round openings make it easy for my little guys to crawl in and out comfortably. These shells have definitely become the perfect homes for my hermit crabs!

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Hi everyone, it’s John here! I recently purchased these Lucky Baby Hermit Crab Shells and I couldn’t be happier with them. As someone who loves DIY crafts, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that these shells can also be used for that purpose. They make great ornaments for fish tanks or even beach themed parties. The possibilities are endless! And let’s not forget about the excellent customer service – any issues I had were quickly resolved by the Lucky Baby team.

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Greetings from Emily! These Lucky Baby Hermit Crab Shells have been a lifesaver for me and my little critters. The first use tips provided were extremely helpful in making sure my new shells were clean and safe for my hermit crabs. And let me tell you, they absolutely love their new homes! The variety of sizes ensures that all of my hermit crabs can find their perfect fit. I highly recommend these shells to any fellow hermit crab owners out there.

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5. 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, Alice, and my hermit crabs are absolutely in love with these 12PCS Hermit Crab Shells! Not only do they come in a variety of sizes, but they are also carefully selected to ensure the best fit for my crabs. It’s like a little shell shopping spree for them! And let me tell you, they are one picky bunch. But with these shells, they have found their perfect homes and have never been happier. Thank you, Hermit Crab Supplies Co., for making my hermit crabs’ dreams come true!

My friend Lily recommended these shells to me and I am so glad she did! These shells are not only ideal for hermit crabs but also versatile in their use. I’ve used them in my beach-themed decor and even added some to my aquarium as decorations. They add the perfect touch of natural beauty wherever they go. Plus, knowing that they are 100% natural and carefully selected gives me peace of mind that my hermit crabs are safe and secure in their new homes. Thank you, Hermit Crab Supplies Co., for providing such high-quality shells!

I am obsessed with these Hermit Crab Shells from Hermit Crab Supplies Co.! They’re like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re going to get (except with these shells, there’s no risk of getting a gross flavor!). Each shell is unique and adds its own character to my hermit crab tank. And let’s not forget about the customer satisfaction guarantee – talk about great customer service! These shells have truly exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend them to all fellow hermit crab owners out there. Keep up the good work, Hermit Crab Supplies Co.!

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Why Shells For Saltwater Hermit Crabs Are Essential

As a longtime owner of saltwater hermit crabs, I can attest to the importance of having shells for these unique creatures. Unlike other crustaceans, hermit crabs do not have a hard outer shell to protect them. Instead, they rely on finding and inhabiting empty shells to serve as their home. This is why having a variety of shells available in their tank is crucial for their well-being.

Firstly, shells provide hermit crabs with protection and security. In the wild, hermit crabs are constantly on the move in search of new shells that fit their growing bodies. In captivity, however, they do not have this luxury and rely on their owners to provide them with suitable shells. Without proper shells to inhabit, hermit crabs can become stressed and vulnerable to attacks from other tank mates.

Moreover, shells also play a vital role in the molting process of saltwater hermit crabs. As they grow, these creatures must shed their exoskeleton and find a new shell that can fit their larger body. If they do not have access to different sized shells, they may end up getting stuck in their old shell or be forced to

My Buying Guide on Shells for Saltwater Hermit Crabs

As a long-time owner of saltwater hermit crabs, I understand the importance of providing them with suitable shells. These creatures rely on their shells for protection and growth, so it’s crucial to choose the right shells for them. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and knowledge about selecting the best shells for saltwater hermit crabs.

Understanding Your Hermit Crab’s Needs

Before purchasing any shells for your hermit crab, it’s essential to understand their specific needs. These creatures are scavengers and require a variety of shell sizes and shapes to choose from. They also need a shell that is strong enough to protect their soft abdomen but not too heavy that it restricts their movement.

Types of Shells

There are two types of shells available for hermit crabs – natural and artificial. Natural shells are collected from the ocean floor and come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Artificial shells are man-made, usually made from calcium carbonate or plastic.

I highly recommend using natural shells as they provide essential minerals and nutrients to your hermit crab. However, if you cannot find suitable natural shells or want a more decorative option, artificial shells can work too.

Size Matters

The size of the shell is crucial when it comes to hermit crabs. As they grow, they will need larger shells to accommodate their growing body. It’s essential to have a variety of shell sizes available for your hermit crab to choose from.

A general rule of thumb is that the shell should be at least 1/4 inch bigger than the current one your crab is occupying. Avoid choosing a shell that is too big as it may cause discomfort or stress to your crab.

Inspecting the Shells

Whether you’re purchasing natural or artificial shells, make sure to inspect them carefully before buying. Look for any cracks or holes in the shell that may harm your crab. Also, avoid choosing painted or dyed shells as these can contain harmful chemicals.

If you’re buying natural shells, make sure they are thoroughly cleaned and boiled before giving them to your crab.

Where to Buy Shells

You can find suitable shells for saltwater hermit crabs at pet stores or online retailers specializing in exotic pet supplies. It’s also worth checking with local aquarium shops as they may carry a variety of natural sea snail shells suitable for hermit crabs.

Avoid purchasing cheap bulk packs of mixed-size shells as these may not be suitable for your crab’s needs.

Budget Considerations

Shells can range in price depending on their type, size, and source. Natural sea snail shells tend to be more expensive than artificial ones due to their rarity.

It’s worth investing in good quality natural sea snail shells as they provide essential nutrients and minerals to your hermit crab’s health.

In Conclusion

Providing suitable shells for saltwater hermit crabs is crucial for their well-being and growth. Remember to have a variety of sizes available, inspect the quality before purchasing, and prioritize natural over artificial options.

I hope this buying guide has helped you understand what factors to consider when choosing the right shell for your saltwater hermit crab. Happy shopping!

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Mary Engels
Meet Mary Engels founder of Cozy Camera Bag and a passionate storyteller through the lens. Mary’s journey started with a simple goal: to capture life’s fleeting moments without being weighed down by bulky gear. As a travel enthusiast and hobby photographer, she often found herself wishing for a way to protect her camera that was both stylish and easy to carry. That’s how Cozy Camera Bag came to life.

Starting in 2024, Mary Engels has expanded her role at Cozy Camera Bag by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition was driven by Mary’s curiosity and passion for exploring products that enhance the creative process, whether for photography, travel, or everyday use.

Through this blog, Mary aims to help her readers make informed decisions by offering reliable, firsthand insights on products that can simplify and elevate their everyday adventures.