Plastic waste is becoming an increasingly popular choice for hermit crabs around the world to use as shells, according to a study published in the journal Science of the Total Environment. Photos taken by wildlife enthusiasts and shared online revealed that two-thirds of hermit crab species were living in “artificial shells” made from discarded human waste. The researchers discovered a total of 386 individuals using plastic caps as shells. This global phenomenon raises questions about the potential harm or benefits of plastic shells for the small crustaceans and how it may impact their evolution.
The researchers found that ten out of the 16 species of land hermit crabs in the world use plastic shells in all tropical regions. It remains uncertain whether these materials are harmful, helpful, or neutral for the crabs. The discovery highlights the fact that animals are adapting to their surroundings in the current era of extensive plastic pollution. While some may find these images heart-breaking, it is essential to understand that animals are utilizing what is available to them.
By studying the interaction between hermit crabs and plastic, scientists hope to determine the potential harm and the effects on the crabs’ evolution. The scarcity of natural snail shells, which the crabs typically use for protection, may be driving their increased use of plastic alternatives. Plastic “shells” are lighter and may provide an advantage to smaller and weaker crabs as they are easier to carry.
The presence of plastic waste in the marine environment is abundant, with estimates suggesting that at least 171 trillion pieces of plastic are floating in our oceans. Without action, this number could nearly triple by 2040. However, there is hope that a global treaty to address plastic pollution will be signed by nations in 2024.
Seeing hermit crabs adapt to using plastic shells serves as a lesson for humans to reconsider our approach to plastic usage. Rather than discarding plastic, there should be a greater emphasis on reusing and repurposing plastics to reduce waste and its impact on marine life. This study serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences and that we must take responsibility for our plastic consumption.
