Common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus)

Species information

Videos and images

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Authentication

This information is awaiting authentication by a species expert, and will be updated as soon as possible. If you are able to help please contact: arkive@wildscreen.org.uk

Glossary

Abdomen: in arthropods (crustaceans, insects and arachnids) the abdomen is the hind region of the body, which is usually segmented to a degree. In crustacea (e.g. crabs) the limbs attach to the abdomen; in insects the limbs are attached to the thorax (the part of the body nearest to the head) and not the abdomen. In vertebrates the abdomen is the part of the body that contains the internal organs (except the heart and lungs).
Carapace: the top shell of a turtle. In arthropods (insects, crabs etc), the fused head and thorax (the part of the body located near the head) also known as ‘cephalothorax’.
Larvae: stage in an animal’s lifecycle after it hatches from the egg. Larvae are typically very different in appearance to adults; they are able to feed and move around but usually are unable to reproduce.
Omnivorous: of an organism that feeds on both plants and animals.
Parasite: an organism that derives its food from, and lives in or on, another living organism at the host's expense.
Pelagic: inhabits the open oceans.

References

National Biodiversity Network Species Dictionary (January, 2003)
http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nbn/
Wilson, E. 2002. Pagurus bernhardus. Hermit crab. Marine Life Information Network: Biology and Sensitivity Key Information Sub-programme [on-line]. Plymouth: Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom. (November, 2002)
http://www.marlin.ac.uk/species/Pagurusbernhardus.htm
Buczacki, S. (2002) Fauna Britannica.Hamlyn, London.
Fish, J.D. and Fish, S. (1996) A student's guide to the seashore. Second Edition.Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.