Calling all detectives

[nanoman95]

Hey guys

Everything’s been going so well in the tank and everyone seems to be happy! Just one small question…I have 2 red legged hermits that do occasionally latch onto each other n then let go after a few minutes, I tend to leave them to it as there are plenty of shells for them to change into.

I’ve noticed this guy wearing this shell for about 6 weeks now and this weird growth has started developing! Was just a small red dot but now it’s this…any ideas on what’s growing on the shell?

 

[SnazzyUrchin792]

Limpet maybe? @ISpeakForTheSeas

 

[mtfish]

Hard to tell for sure, but looks like a funny looking gastropod called a "slipper shell". Look up Crepidula fornicata.

 

[Crabs McJones]

Slipper limpet, very cool find!

 

[ISpeakForTheSeas]

Yeah, in order of likelihood here: Calyptraeid Snail (Slipper Limpet/Snail/Shell and allies; you would only see the shell), Hoof Snail (you would see it extend a trunk-like proboscis), or barnacle (less-likely, but you'd see it extend a little, feathery rake-looking thing to feed).

All are harmless and neat.

 

[KrisReef]

Yeah, in order of likelihood here: Calyptraeid Snail (Slipper Limpet/Snail/Shell and allies; you would only see the shell), Hoof Snail (you would see it extend a trunk-like proboscis), or barnacle (less-likely, but you'd see it extend a little, feathery rake-looking thing to feed).

All are harmless and neat.

I don't know?

I don't think that shell hitchhiker is going to make it easier for the hermit crab to move about. I bet if you ask the hermit crab it would request assistance in evicting this unwanted camper.

 

[ISpeakForTheSeas]

I don't know?

I don't think that shell hitchhiker is going to make it easier for the hermit crab to move about. I bet if you ask the hermit crab it would request assistance in evicting this unwanted camper.

Haha, true it does add a little weight - consider it some good exercise to help keep the hermit in shape