Hermit Crab Molting or Dead? How to Tell the Difference

When a hermit crab stops moving and remains withdrawn inside its shell, owners face a genuine diagnostic challenge. Molting is a normal, necessary process in which the crab sheds its exoskeleton to grow, and during this period the crab may appear completely lifeless. Death produces a similar appearance. The distinction matters because disturbing a molting crab can be fatal, while leaving a dead crab in the enclosure can contaminate the habitat and endanger other crabs. This article provides a structured comparison of molting versus death signs, a decision workflow, and clear criteria for when to intervene or seek veterinary advice.

The guidance here applies to captive terrestrial hermit crabs, primarily species in the family Coenobitidae, which are the crabs most commonly kept as pets. Marine hermit crabs in the superfamily Paguroidea share the molting process but have different husbandry requirements. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general veterinary reference information on invertebrate care and disease recognition, and the World Organisation for Animal Health addresses animal health and welfare standards that apply to responsible captive animal management. These sources support the general framework of observation-based assessment and welfare-conscious decision making used throughout this article.

At a Glance: Molting Versus Death Comparison

The table below summarizes the key differences between a molting crab and a dead crab. Use this as a first reference point, then read the detailed sections that follow for a complete assessment protocol.

This table provides a rapid screening tool. The sections below explain each criterion in detail and describe how to perform a safe assessment without harming a potentially molting crab.

Understanding the Molting Process in Hermit Crabs

Molting is the physiological process by which a hermit crab sheds its exoskeleton to accommodate growth. All crustaceans molt, and the process is controlled by hormones that trigger the separation of the old exoskeleton from the new soft integument beneath it. During this period, the crab is extremely vulnerable. It cannot feed, move normally, or defend itself, and it relies on the safety of its shell and substrate.

The molting process follows a predictable sequence. In the weeks before molting, a crab may become less active, eat more or less than usual, and spend increased time near the water source. It may also dig and tunnel in the substrate, preparing a burrow. The crab then seals itself inside its shell or burrow and begins the actual molt. The old exoskeleton splits along the back, and the crab extracts itself from the old shell, including the lining of the gills, the digestive tract, and the eye stalks. This is an exhausting process that can take hours. After emergence, the new exoskeleton is soft and pale, and the crab remains hidden while it hardens.

The duration of molting varies widely. Small crabs may molt in a few weeks, while larger crabs can remain buried for several months. The crab may consume its old exoskeleton after molting to recover calcium and other minerals. During this entire period, the crab appears motionless and unresponsive. An owner who does not know the crab is molting may reasonably conclude that the crab has died.

The environmental niche of hermit crabs is shaped by factors such as temperature, salinity, and habitat structure, as documented in research on global hermit crab lineages. In captivity, temperature and humidity directly influence molting frequency and duration. Warmer conditions generally accelerate metabolic processes, while cooler conditions slow them. Owners should maintain stable environmental parameters and recognize that molting timing is not predictable to the day.

Core Signs That Indicate Molting

Several observations strongly suggest that a crab is molting instead of dead. These signs are reliable when assessed together.

Burrowing and Substrate Disturbance

A molting crab typically burrows into the substrate. The substrate should be deep enough for the crab to completely bury itself, and the crab will create a tunnel or chamber. Owners may notice mounded substrate, a depression, or a completely smooth surface where the crab disappeared. The crab may remain buried for weeks or months. If the crab is on the surface and motionless, molting is less likely, though some crabs molt on the surface if substrate is inadequate.

Shell Position and Grip

A molting crab maintains a firm grip on the interior of its shell. The abdomen is held inside the shell, and the crab does not release its hold even when gently handled. A dead crab, by contrast, often loses muscle tone and may slip partially or completely out of the shell. If the crab is still firmly inside the shell and the shell is intact, molting remains a strong possibility.

Absence of Decomposition Odor

The single most reliable indicator of death is the presence of a foul odor. Decomposition begins within hours to days after death, and the smell is distinctive. A molting crab produces no such odor. If the enclosure smells clean or has only the normal earthy or marine scent of the substrate and water, the crab is likely alive and molting. Owners should be cautious about opening the enclosure to smell the crab directly, as this disturbs the microclimate. Instead, smell the air near the enclosure or the substrate surface.

Soft or Pale Appendages

If the crab is visible, either partially out of its shell or in a clear container, the new exoskeleton appears soft, pale, and sometimes slightly translucent. The old exoskeleton may be visible nearby as a hollow shell-like structure. The crab may also be consuming the old exoskeleton. This is a definitive sign of molting.

Extended Inactivity With Stable Condition

A molting crab remains motionless for an extended period, but its condition does not deteriorate. The body does not dry out, the shell does not empty, and no odor develops. Owners should track the duration of inactivity and note whether the crab's condition changes. A crab that remains in the same position for weeks without developing decomposition signs is almost certainly molting.

Core Signs That Indicate Death

Death produces a distinct set of signs that become more obvious over time. Recognizing these signs allows owners to remove the dead crab promptly and protect the rest of the enclosure.

Foul Odor

The decomposition odor is the most definitive sign of death. The smell is often described as sweet, putrid, or similar to rotting fish. It becomes stronger over the first few days after death. If the enclosure develops this odor and the source is the crab, the crab is dead. Owners should remove the crab and investigate the enclosure for other dead animals or spoiled food.

Empty or Abandoned Shell

A dead crab may fall out of its shell, or the shell may be found empty with the crab's body nearby. In some cases, the crab dies inside the shell and the body decomposes there, producing the foul odor. An empty shell with no crab present indicates that the crab either died and was removed by another crab or escaped. In a closed enclosure, an empty shell with a missing crab suggests death and possible consumption by tank mates.

Stiff or Detached Limbs

After death, the crab's muscles lose tone and then stiffen. The legs may be extended or contorted, and limbs may detach easily. A molting crab's limbs are soft and pliable, while a dead crab's limbs become rigid. If a limb falls off when the crab is gently handled, death is likely.

Lack of Shell Grip

A live crab, even one in the early stages of molting, maintains a strong grip on the shell interior. A dead crab cannot grip. If the crab can be pulled from its shell with minimal resistance, it is dead or dying. This test should be performed gently and only when other signs suggest death, because forcing a molting crab from its shell can be fatal.

Surface Positioning

Molting crabs bury themselves or hide in sheltered areas. A crab found on the open substrate surface, in a water dish, or at the base of a climbing structure, especially in an unnatural position, is more likely to be dead or severely ill. Surface positioning alone is not conclusive, but it raises concern.

The Smell Test: How to Assess Odor Safely

The smell test is the most practical and reliable method for distinguishing molting from death, but it must be performed correctly to avoid harming a molting crab.

Step-by-Step Odor Assessment

1. Approach the enclosure and note any odor in the surrounding air. Do not open the enclosure yet.
2. If no odor is present, gently lift the enclosure lid or door just enough to smell the air inside. Avoid disturbing the substrate or the crab.
3. If the enclosure smells clean or has a mild earthy or marine scent, the crab is likely alive and molting. Close the enclosure and leave the crab undisturbed.
4. If a foul, sweet, or rotting odor is present, identify the source. The odor may come from the crab, from spoiled food, or from a dead tank mate.
5. If the odor is localized to the crab's location and the crab is motionless, death is probable. Proceed with a careful visual inspection.

Limitations of the Smell Test

The smell test has limitations. A crab that died very recently may not yet produce a detectable odor. Decomposition typically becomes noticeable within 24 to 48 hours, but this depends on temperature and humidity. In a warm, humid enclosure, decomposition accelerates. In cooler conditions, the odor may take longer to develop. If the smell test is inconclusive, wait 24 hours and repeat the assessment. A molting crab will still show no odor, while a dead crab will develop one.

The smell test also cannot distinguish between a dead crab and other sources of odor, such as rotting food or a dead feeder insect. Owners should inspect the enclosure for other potential odor sources before concluding that the crab has died.

The Gentle Stimulus Test: What to Do and What to Avoid

The stimulus test involves gently touching the crab to observe a response. This test carries risk because a molting crab is extremely vulnerable and stress can be fatal. Use this test only when the smell test and visual inspection are inconclusive.

Safe Stimulus Methods

1. Use a soft brush or a cotton swab to gently touch the crab's legs or the opening of the shell. Do not poke the crab's body directly.
2. Observe for any movement, such as a leg twitch, a claw retraction, or a shift in position. A molting crab in the early or late stages may respond slowly. A crab in the middle of the molt will not respond at all.
3. Gently tap the shell with a soft object. A live crab may pull further into the shell or adjust its grip.
4. Observe the crab's eyes. If the eye stalks are visible, look for any movement or retraction. Live crabs often move their eyes in response to light or touch.

Stimulus Methods to Avoid

Do not pick up the crab or pull it from its shell. Do not run water over the crab. Do not expose the crab to bright light or loud noises. Do not dig up a buried crab to test for a response. These actions can kill a molting crab by causing physical injury or extreme stress.

Interpreting the Results

A response to gentle stimulus indicates the crab is alive, but it does not confirm that the crab is not molting. A crab in the early or late stages of molt may still respond to touch. A lack of response is expected during the actual molt and does not confirm death. The stimulus test is most useful when combined with the smell test and visual inspection. If the crab does not respond and there is no odor, continue to treat the crab as molting and wait.

Visual Inspection: What to Look For Without Causing Harm

Visual inspection can provide valuable information, but it must be done without disturbing the crab or its environment.

Inspecting the Shell

Look at the shell for cracks, holes, or signs of damage. A molting crab typically remains inside an intact shell. A dead crab may have an empty shell, or the shell may show signs of struggle. If the shell is partially buried, the crab may be molting beneath it. Do not move the shell to inspect it.

Inspecting the Substrate

Look for signs of tunneling. A mound of substrate, a depression, or a smooth area where the crab disappeared indicates burrowing. If the crab is on the surface and the substrate shows no disturbance, the crab may be dead or ill. However, some crabs molt on the surface when substrate is too shallow or unsuitable.

Inspecting the Body

If the crab is partially visible, look at the color and texture of the exposed appendages. A molting crab has soft, pale, or translucent legs and claws. A dead crab may have discolored, shriveled, or stiff limbs. Look for the old exoskeleton near the crab. If the old exoskeleton is present and the crab appears soft and pale, the crab has molted and is hardening its new shell.

Inspecting the Enclosure

Check the water dishes, food bowls, and climbing structures. A dead crab may have fallen from a climbing structure or drowned in a water dish. A molting crab will not be in these locations. Check for other dead animals in the enclosure, as a dead tank mate can produce an odor that is mistaken for the crab's death.

The Decision Tree: A Step-by-Step Workflow

The following decision tree provides a structured approach to determining whether a crab is molting or dead. Follow the steps in order and do not skip steps.

Step 1: Assess the Odor

Smell the air near the enclosure. If a foul odor is present, proceed to Step 2. If no odor is present, proceed to Step 3.

Step 2: Locate the Odor Source

If the odor comes from the crab's location and the crab is motionless, death is probable. Remove the crab using a scoop or spoon, place it in a sealed container, and confirm by observing for decomposition signs over 24 hours. If the odor comes from elsewhere, remove the odor source and reassess the crab.

Step 3: Observe the Crab's Position

If the crab is buried or hidden, molting is likely. Do not disturb it. If the crab is on the surface, proceed to Step 4.

Step 4: Perform a Gentle Stimulus Test

Use a soft brush or cotton swab to gently touch the crab's legs or shell. If the crab responds, it is alive. If it does not respond, proceed to Step 5.

Step 5: Wait and Reassess

If the crab does not respond and there is no odor, wait 24 to 48 hours and repeat the odor assessment. A molting crab will remain odorless. A dead crab will develop an odor. If the odor develops, remove the crab. If no odor develops after 48 hours, continue to treat the crab as molting.

Step 6: Document and Monitor

Record the date the crab became inactive, the date of any odor assessment, and any changes in the crab's condition. Monitor the enclosure temperature and humidity to ensure conditions are stable. Continue to check for odor every few days without disturbing the crab.

This decision tree is summarized in the table below.

Environmental Factors That Influence Molting and Decomposition

The distinction between molting and death is influenced by environmental conditions. Temperature, humidity, substrate quality, and enclosure hygiene all affect both the molting process and the rate of decomposition.

Temperature

Temperature affects metabolic rate in hermit crabs. Warmer temperatures accelerate both molting and decomposition. In a warm enclosure, a dead crab will develop an odor within 24 hours. In a cooler enclosure, decomposition may take several days. The optimal temperature range for captive terrestrial hermit crabs is generally considered to be between 24 and 29 degrees Celsius, though owners should follow species-specific guidance. Temperatures outside this range can stress crabs and increase the risk of molting complications.

Humidity

Humidity affects the crab's ability to breathe and to molt successfully. Terrestrial hermit crabs have modified gills that require humid air to function. Low humidity can cause the gills to dry out, leading to death. High humidity supports molting by keeping the new exoskeleton soft and pliable. Owners should maintain relative humidity above 70 percent for most terrestrial species. A dead crab in a humid enclosure will decompose rapidly, producing a strong odor.

Substrate Quality

The substrate must be deep enough for the crab to bury itself completely. A substrate depth of at least three times the crab's shell height is often recommended. The substrate should also hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. Sand and coconut fiber mixtures are commonly used. If the substrate is too shallow, the crab cannot burrow and may molt on the surface, where it is vulnerable to disturbance and desiccation.

Enclosure Hygiene

A clean enclosure reduces the risk of bacterial and fungal growth that can complicate molting or accelerate decomposition. Remove uneaten food daily and spot-clean waste. Replace the substrate regularly according to a schedule. A dirty enclosure can produce odors that are mistaken for a dead crab, and it can harbor pathogens that kill molting crabs.

Research on hermit crab environmental niches shows that habitat suitability is strongly structured by bathymetry and temperature in marine systems. While captive terrestrial crabs occupy a different environment, the principle that environmental conditions shape crab health and behavior applies equally. Owners should maintain stable conditions and recognize that environmental stress can trigger abnormal molting or death.

Common Failure Patterns in Owner Assessment

Owners commonly make errors when assessing whether a crab is molting or dead. Recognizing these failure patterns can prevent unnecessary harm.

Disturbing a Molting Crab

The most common and most damaging error is disturbing a molting crab. Owners who assume the crab is dead may dig it up, handle it, or remove it from the enclosure. This can tear the soft new exoskeleton, cause internal injury, or induce fatal stress. A molting crab that is disturbed may die as a direct result. The smell test and a waiting period are essential to avoid this error.

Removing a Live Crab From the Enclosure

Some owners remove a motionless crab from the enclosure to examine it more closely. This separates the crab from its substrate and humidity, which can be fatal during a molt. If the crab is alive and molting, removal from the enclosure can kill it. Always assess the crab in place and avoid removal unless death is confirmed by odor.

Confusing the Old Exoskeleton With a Dead Crab

After a crab molts, the old exoskeleton remains in the enclosure. The old exoskeleton looks like a dead crab, complete with legs, claws, and eye stalks. Owners may find the old exoskeleton and conclude that the crab has died, when in fact the crab is alive and hiding nearby. The old exoskeleton is hollow and lightweight, and it does not decompose with the same odor as a dead body. If the old exoskeleton is found, search for the live crab in its new, soft form.

Misinterpreting Surface Molting

Some crabs molt on the surface when the substrate is inadequate. A surface-molting crab appears motionless and may be mistaken for dead. The smell test is especially important in this situation. If there is no odor, the crab may be molting on the surface. Provide a shelter or partial cover to protect the crab, but do not move it.

Assuming Death Based on Duration Alone

Owners may assume that a crab that has been inactive for several weeks must be dead. Molting duration varies widely, and large crabs can remain buried for months. Duration alone is not a reliable indicator of death. The smell test and visual inspection are more reliable.

Failing to Account for Tank Mates

In a multi-crab enclosure, a dead crab may be consumed by other crabs. The shell may be found empty with no body nearby. This can be mistaken for a crab that escaped or for a crab that molted and left its old exoskeleton. If a crab is missing and no odor is present, check for the old exoskeleton and for signs of consumption. A crab that has been eaten by tank mates is dead, and the enclosure should be monitored for the health of the remaining crabs.

Records and Measurements for Monitoring

Keeping records of crab activity and enclosure conditions helps owners distinguish molting from death and identify patterns over time.

What to Record

Record the following information for each crab in the enclosure:

• Species and approximate size
• Date of acquisition
• Dates of observed molting events
• Duration of each molt
• Dates of inactivity and the reason for the inactivity
• Enclosure temperature and humidity readings
• Substrate type and depth
• Water source and quality
• Diet and feeding behavior
• Any signs of illness or abnormal behavior

How to Use the Records

Records allow owners to establish a baseline for each crab. A crab that molts regularly and follows a predictable pattern is likely healthy. A crab that becomes inactive outside its usual pattern may be ill or stressed. Records also help owners track the duration of a current molt. If a crab has been inactive for longer than its previous molts, the owner can increase monitoring frequency without disturbing the crab.

Measurement Tools

Owners should use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor enclosure conditions. Digital devices provide accurate readings. Place the devices at the level where the crabs spend most of their time. Record readings daily or weekly, depending on the stability of the environment. A sudden change in temperature or humidity can trigger molting or contribute to death.

Photographic Documentation

Photographs of each crab, including shell color and pattern, help owners identify individual crabs and track changes over time. Photographs of the enclosure and substrate can document burrowing activity. If a crab dies, photographs of the body and shell can help a veterinarian or experienced keeper determine the cause of death.

Welfare and Safety Considerations

The distinction between molting and death is a matter of animal welfare. The World Organisation for Animal Health emphasizes the importance of animal health and welfare in all animal management practices. Responsible owners should minimize stress and avoid unnecessary disturbance to their crabs.

Welfare Principles for Molting Crabs

A molting crab is in a state of extreme vulnerability. It cannot escape from threats, and it relies entirely on the safety of its shell and burrow. Disturbing a molting crab causes stress that can be fatal. Owners should treat any motionless crab as potentially molting until death is confirmed by odor. This conservative approach protects the welfare of molting crabs.

Welfare Principles for Dead Crabs

A dead crab should be removed promptly to prevent contamination of the enclosure. Decomposition releases ammonia and other compounds that can harm other crabs. The dead crab should be removed using a scoop or spoon to avoid direct contact. The enclosure should be spot-cleaned, and the substrate should be monitored for signs of contamination.

Safety for Owners

Owners should wash their hands before and after handling crabs or cleaning the enclosure. Hermit crabs can carry bacteria that are harmless to the crab but can cause illness in humans. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth after handling crabs. Use gloves if the owner has open wounds on the hands. Children should be supervised when handling crabs or cleaning the enclosure.

Safety for Other Crabs

A dead crab in the enclosure can affect the health of other crabs. The decomposition process can contaminate the substrate and water, and the odor can attract pests. Remove the dead crab promptly and monitor the remaining crabs for signs of illness. If multiple crabs die in a short period, investigate the enclosure conditions and consult a veterinarian.

When to Escalate to a Veterinarian

Most cases of a motionless crab can be resolved by the owner using the smell test and a waiting period. However, some situations warrant professional veterinary advice.

Urgent Escalation Criteria

Seek veterinary advice immediately if any of the following occur:

• The crab shows signs of severe injury, such as a cracked shell, a detached limb with bleeding, or an exposed body cavity.
• The crab is partially out of its shell and cannot retract, and the body appears damaged.
• The crab is floating in water and appears unable to move or breathe.
• The crab has a visible parasite or abnormal growth on its body.
• Multiple crabs in the enclosure die within a short period.

Routine Escalation Criteria

Seek veterinary advice on a routine basis if any of the following occur:

• The crab has not moved or eaten for longer than its previous molting duration, and no odor is present.
• The crab molts more frequently than expected or shows signs of molting complications, such as an inability to shed the old exoskeleton.
• The crab shows chronic signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal shell selection behavior.
• The owner is uncertain about the diagnosis and wants professional confirmation.

What to Tell the Veterinarian

When contacting a veterinarian, provide the following information:

• Species and approximate size of the crab
• Duration of inactivity
• Results of the smell test
• Enclosure temperature and humidity readings
• Substrate type and depth
• Diet and recent feeding behavior
• Any other crabs in the enclosure and their health status
• Photographs or video of the crab if available

The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general reference information on invertebrate health, but it does not replace a professional examination. A veterinarian with experience in invertebrate medicine can provide species-specific guidance and, if necessary, diagnostic testing.

Limitations of Owner Assessment

Owner assessment has inherent limitations. The smell test is reliable but not infallible. A crab that died very recently may not produce an odor for 24 to 48 hours. A crab that died in a cool, dry environment may decompose slowly, delaying the odor. Conversely, a molting crab in a warm, humid enclosure may produce a mild odor from the substrate or from the old exoskeleton, which can be mistaken for decomposition.

The stimulus test is also limited. A molting crab in the early or late stages may respond to touch, while a crab in the middle of the molt will not. A dead crab may show reflexive muscle twitches shortly after death, which can be mistaken for life. The stimulus test should always be combined with the smell test and visual inspection.

Visual inspection is limited by the crab's position and the enclosure design. A crab buried deep in the substrate cannot be seen without digging, which is harmful. A crab inside a shell cannot be fully examined without removing it, which is also harmful. Owners must work with the information available and avoid actions that risk the crab's life.

The scientific literature on hermit crabs provides context for understanding crab behavior and physiology, but it does not provide a definitive diagnostic test for molting versus death in captive crabs. Research on hermit crab shell selection and resource use, such as studies on shell preference and exploitation strategies, helps owners understand crab behavior but does not replace direct observation of the individual crab.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a hermit crab stay buried during a molt?

The duration of a molt varies by species, size, and environmental conditions. Small crabs may molt in two to four weeks, while larger crabs can remain buried for two to three months or longer. Owners should not assume death based on duration alone. Use the smell test to confirm that the crab is alive. If no odor is present, continue to treat the crab as molting and wait.

Can a hermit crab molt on the surface?

Yes, a hermit crab can molt on the surface if the substrate is too shallow or unsuitable for burrowing. A surface-molting crab is extremely vulnerable and should be protected from disturbance. Provide a shelter or partial cover, but do not move the crab. The smell test is the most reliable way to confirm that a surface-molting crab is alive.

What does a dead hermit crab smell like?

A dead hermit crab produces a strong, sweet, or putrid odor similar to rotting fish. The odor develops within 24 to 48 hours after death in warm, humid conditions. The odor is distinct from the mild earthy or marine scent of a healthy enclosure. If the enclosure smells foul and the source is the crab, the crab is dead.

Is it safe to pick up a hermit crab to check if it is alive?

No. Picking up a hermit crab can be fatal if the crab is molting. The new exoskeleton is soft and easily damaged, and the stress of handling can kill the crab. Use the smell test and a gentle stimulus test instead. If the crab is buried, do not dig it up. Wait and monitor for odor.

What should I do if I find an empty shell in the enclosure?

An empty shell may indicate that the crab died and was removed by tank mates, or that the crab molted and left its old exoskeleton. Check for the old exoskeleton, which is hollow and lightweight. If the old exoskeleton is present, the crab is likely alive and hiding. If no old exoskeleton is present and the crab is missing, the crab may have died and been consumed. Monitor the enclosure for odor and the health of remaining crabs.

Can a hermit crab die during a molt?

Yes, molting is a high-risk period for hermit crabs. Complications can include an inability to shed the old exoskeleton, physical injury during the molt, infection

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References and Further Reading

• Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck Veterinary Manual.
• Animal Health and Welfare. World Organisation for Animal Health.
• Environmental filtering and niche differentiation across global hermit crab lineages.. 2026.
• Expression of Concern: A comparative analysis of microplastic contamination in hermit crab Clibanarius rhabdodactylus Forest, 1953, inhabiting intertidal and subtidal Coastal habitat of Gujarat state.. 2026.
• Allometric shell scaling drives body size-dependent shifts in preference and performance in a hermit crab.. 2026.
• &lt,b&gt,New species of hermit crab of the genus &lt,i&gt,Paguristes&lt,/i&gt, (Decapoda: Paguroidea: Diogenidae) from Pacific Costa Rica, Central America&lt,/b&gt,.. 2026.
• Prevalence and effect of Peltogasterella gracilis (Cirripedia: Rhizocephala) on the morphometry of hermit crab Pagurus edwardsii (Decapoda: Anomura) in the Biobío region, Chile.. 2026.
• Parasite species identity reshapes geographic patterns of morphology in the hermit crab Pagurus filholi across Japan. 2026.
• Rub-thin-fracture-extract: first records of hermit crab predation and non-tool shell processing by coastal long-tailed Macaques at Wat Takiap, Thailand.. 2026.
• The exploitation strategy determines the resource partitioning in hermit crabs. 2020.
• Juvenile morphology of the ornamental crab Mithraculus forceps A. Milne-Edwards, 1875 (Crustacea, Brachyura).. Zootaxa, 2022.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Contact a veterinarian for advice about an individual animal.