Heremites

Heremites, also known as hermit crabs, are decapod crustaceans belonging to the superfamilies Paguroidea and Coenobitoidea. Unlike true crabs, hermit crabs have asymmetrical and soft abdomens that are vulnerable to predation. To protect themselves, they inhabit empty gastropod shells, carrying them as they move. As the hermit crab grows, it must find larger shells to accommodate its increasing size. This need for shells influences their behavior and distribution.

Hermit crabs are found in diverse environments, from shallow marine waters to the deep sea, and some species, like the terrestrial hermit crabs, live entirely on land, though they still require access to water. Their diet is varied, consisting of organic matter, algae, and small invertebrates. Many species are scavengers, playing an important role in cleaning their ecosystems.

The life cycle of a hermit crab involves several larval stages before they mature and begin seeking shells. Reproduction typically occurs in the water, even for terrestrial species. Their shell-seeking behavior is a critical aspect of their survival, and competition for suitable shells can be intense. The relationship between hermit crabs and their borrowed shells is a classic example of symbiosis.