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Morphological Adaptations for Shell Anchoring in Calcinus tibicen: Insights From µCT Imaging, Histology and Scanning
Alexandre R da Silva1,2, Carolina Siqueira Safra Terra Melo2, Giselle Pinto de Faria Lopes2
1Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo (MZUSP), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Journal of Morphology
|January 13, 2026
Summary
Hermit crabs anchor shells using specialized appendages. The study reveals uropods act as hooks and pereopods as supports, crucial for shell stability in Calcinus tibicen.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Crustacean Anatomy
- Functional Morphology
Background:
- Hermit crabs require external shells for protection due to their soft abdomens.
- Understanding shell anchoring mechanisms is vital for hermit crab survival and ecology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomical features and functional roles of appendages in Calcinus tibicen for shell anchoring.
- To elucidate the specific contributions of pereopods, telson, and uropods to shell grip.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for surface morphology.
- Micro-computed tomography (µCT) for internal structure analysis.
- Histological analyses of appendage tissues.
Main Results:
- Pereopods possess scale setae and teeth for enhanced shell surface grip.
- Uropods, particularly the left, are crucial for gripping, with developed musculature.
- Tailfan muscles are striated, composed of connective, hemolymphatic, and epithelial tissues.
Conclusions:
- Uropods function as anchoring hooks, while the fourth and fifth pereopods provide support.
- Morphological adaptations in these appendages are key to hermit crab shell use and stability.
- This research clarifies the roles of the tailfan and pereopods in shell anchoring.
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