I'm a PhD student at the University of Essex in the UK where I study deep-sea coral connectivity with Michelle Taylor. I completed my masters in Okinawa with James Reimer where I studied shallow water corals. Ever since I learned about the hermit crabs suffering from plastic pollution, I have wanted to survey the extent of the problem and try to help them.
Thank you Octo! We will definitely look into this. The giant land snails are everywhere, I wouldn't be surprised if they are influencing shell availability.
It's an interesting adaptation for sure. Hopefully we can figure out why they are using plastic and other waste in the first place and understand the reason for the lack of natural shells. Thank you for backing the project!