Seashell

Seashell or simply – shell, is unique in terms of providing home for different marine species.

Seashell is part of the body of the mollusk that lives in it. And when for any reason that mollusk drops the shell – it becomes a new home for hermit crabs! There are various reason why a mollusk might abandon his home. The most common is mollusks death.

Maltese waters host both the big shells, like Tonna galea and the small, sometimes even tiny ones. The latter are the favorite of hermit crabs. It is very frequent to spot one running around the wreck carrying his new home on his back.

While it is tempting to touch one when you spot it during your dive, or even take one home – don’t! Remember, take nothing but photos while underwater. Any shell that you would come across while on your dive might be someone’s home.