This hermit crab (Parapagurus), seen at a depth of 3,651 meters (2.27 miles) during Dive 06 of Windows to the Deep 2021, was carrying an anemone on its back. Research suggests this is a mutualistic relationship — the anemone gets food waste from the crab while the crab benefits from the stinging cells of the anemone for added protection.
Hermit Crab with Anemone on its Back
Image courtesy of NOAA Ocean Exploration, Windows to the Deep 2021.
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This hermit crab (Parapagurus), seen at a depth of 3,651 meters (2.27 miles) during Dive 06 of Windows to the Deep 2021, was carrying an anemone on its back. Research suggests this is a mutualistic relationship — the anemone gets food waste from the crab while the crab benefits from the stinging cells of the anemone for added protection.