Hermit Crab Shells

I recently introduced several hermit crabs and two snails to my 10 gallon FOWLR, which I plan to soon add some corals too. Not that I have added these clean up crew critters I have been warned of hermits killing snails to take over their shells as the hermits grow bigger.

I see that some shells can be purchased online and very few if any are available in my local LFS. I have the benefit of living on the coast of Connecticut and minutes from the Long Island Sound. I was wondering if it would be safe to pick up some empty shells from my local beach and then put them in the tank for the hermits to change shells to. Of course I would clean the shells well prior to introducing them to my tank.

Any objections or opinions on this matter?

 

There is nothing wrong with your plan, it's actually a good idea. When you clean the shells, be sure not to use any bleach, anti-bacterial soaps, or any other chemicals. Just use the sprayer on your kitchen sink or your garden hose.

 

It shouldn't be an issue as long as they get cleaned well. Nice cheap way to get some!

I noticed once I added a ton of various sizes of shells for my hermits, they started changing shells often. Really neat to watch.

 

I agree, shouldn't be a problem