Hermits and pests

[smokingreefer]

I helped a friend break down a tank and I found some Hermit crabs. His tank is loaded with little worms. I'm worried if I put them in my tank I'll transfer a pest worm. Can Hermit crabs transfer hitchhikers? Or am I worrying about nothing?

 

[Macbalacano]

I helped a friend break down a tank and I found some Hermit crabs. His tank is loaded with little worms. I'm worried if I put them in my tank I'll transfer a pest worm. Can Hermit crabs transfer hitchhikers? Or am I worrying about nothing?

In theory, yes absolutely. In reality, does it happen often? Probably not. You could quarantine them for a bit if you are concerned in a separate tank to observe.

 

[smokingreefer]

In theory, yes absolutely. In reality, does it happen often? Probably not. You could quarantine them for a bit if you are concerned in a separate tank to observe.

They've been in 5 gallon bucket in front of a heat vent for days. So I will see I guess.

 

[Greg P]

Can Hermit crabs transfer hitchhikers?

Certainly
Critters can encapsulate themselves on the outer shells, nevermind what might be allowed to reside in the shell
This is why some people prefer to QT inverts

 

[smokingreefer]

How long to starve out a tiny worm?

Certainly
Critters can encapsulate themselves on the outer shells, nevermind what might be allowed to reside in the shell
This is why some people prefer to QT inverts

 

[Greg P]

How long to starve out a tiny worm?

Honestly, I've never heard of a hermit allowing another critter to reside in it's shell. I just wouldn't rule it out as impossible.
As far as removal if there is something inside is beyond my knowledge.

 

[HB AL]

Keep it simple and add the hermits