Hermit crabs have two sets of antennae they use for various sensory input. The inner antennae are shorter and used for taste and smell. In this image you can see the longer, outer antennae, known as feelers, which they use to navigate what’s in front of them. I photographed this Caribbean hermit crab, also known as a purple pincher on the Caribbean island of St. Barts. Nikon D500 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/4 at 1/500th of a second.
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Hermit crabs have two sets of antennae they use for various sensory input. The inner antennae are shorter and used for taste and smell. In this image you can see the longer, outer antennae, known as feelers, which they use to navigate what’s in front of them. I photographed this Caribbean hermit crab, also known as a purple pincher on the Caribbean island of St. Barts. Nikon D500 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 800, f/4 at 1/500th of a second.
I once knew a guy who’s nickname was “the purple pincher.” He got cancelled. And rightly so.
I read they grow up to 6″ in size. I would not want to be on the beach barefoot when a consortium of them are approaching me. Ouch!
Extreme perspective – love them antennae! Have never seen a photo of a hermit crab quite like it. You scored, Sean!
How lucky for both of you to spend some quality beach time in St. Bart’s!