Calcinus
Calcinus is a genus of hermit crabs in the family Diogenidae. It comprises about 125 species, including many popular aquarium species. They are known for their diverse and colorful appearances, ranging from brown and red to orange and white, with intricate patterns and markings. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from shallow intertidal areas to deeper waters, across the Indo-Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean.
Common Names
Members of the genus Calcinus are commonly known as "Calcinus hermit crabs" or simply "hermit crabs". Some species have specific common names, such as the "orange-clawed hermit crab" (Calcinus laevimanus) and the "red-legged hermit crab" (Calcinus latimanus).
Characteristics
Like other hermit crabs, Calcinus species rely on gastropod shells for protection. They have soft abdomens that are vulnerable to predation, so they use empty shells to shield their bodies. These crabs are relatively small, typically growing to a size of 1-3 inches. They possess ten legs, with the first pair modified into large claws that they use for defense and feeding. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of algae, detritus, and small invertebrates.
Habitat and Distribution
Calcinus hermit crabs are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs
- Rocky shores
- Seagrass beds
- Mangrove forests
- Sandy bottoms