There are over 800 species of hermit crabs divided into two groups – marine and land. Most underwater hermit crabs require shelter produced by other organisms or risk being defenseless. Hermit crabs pick shells that help them increase mobility along with security.

Most aquatic hermit crabs are omnivores. The hermit crab above is feasting on coral polyps.

The picture above was taken in the Laamu Atoll, Maldives.

Diving logistics and support was provided by the Six Senses Laamu Resort dive team.

I captured this image with a Panasonic GH5 and Lumix 14-42 zoom lens in a Nauticam housing. Camera and underwater housing details can be found here.