Red Scarlet Hermit Crabs

[msuburg]

Hi guys, I'm a newbie to the forum here, as well as a newbie to the aquarium world. Starting up a 12 gallon nanocube saltwater tank. I have three astrea snails that have been doing well for almost 2 weeks now. About 3 days ago I got the hermit crabs (3 of them). I noticed they seem to often be flipped over, so the back of their shells is on the gravel, and the opening is facing up with thier little legs/pinchers showing just a little. Should I help them flip back over? Is this normal? I've flipped them a few times, and they seem to crawl around a few minutes later. I just dont' want to stress them out or anything. Recommendations?

Thanks!

 

[Biggen]

Welcome to Aquarium Advice!

Its been my experience that hermits can typically flip themselves upright with little to no trouble. Unless you are seeing the same crab on its back for an extended period, I wouldn't worry too much about it.

 

[Bearfan]

Crabs can climb out of their shells if they need to...leave them be.

 

[Atari]

I'd be more worried if the snails flip over :?

 

[lando]

WELCOME TO AA!! You found the best site on the web for fast, friendly, and great advice. Your crabs should be fine. Just let them be. However, if you notice a snail up-side-down, turn it over. They are not self-righting and if they die can really cause problems with your water parameters. Good luck! Lando

 

[SquishyFish]

They pretty much said it all..I just wanted to say welcome to the addiction!