I own about 15 land hermit crabs, and I was a victim of those darned painted shells at the time (obviously I didn't know any better at the time)... my first hermit crab didn't have a painted shell though, thank goodness, but it was still a purchase from a store that DID sell hermit crabs with painted shells. Blech.
After that, I did my research, and I fell into a hermit crabdiction, only buying land hermit crabs with natural shells, and I fell inlove with all of them (still do!) It's amazing that I still have these little guys, in a 55 gallon tank. It's kinda fun watching them scurrying around the tank and hanging out...lol. I've gotten to know them well enough that I try to convince people that if they are going to have land hermit crabs as pets, that they should never buy ones with painted shells. Since they will switch shells eventually, as they grow.
And yes, those bettas in the cups are just... not. cool. I wish there was a better way of selling bettas, unfortunately most companies just don't care about the health of the fish, and only care about selling them ASAP. So sad.
And LOL... our feud has been subdued I think, since I'm cleaaaaarly the winner ;-) LOL
But yes, it's definitely much better to keep the shrimp in an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat.
jettej: Definitely get that 15 gallon set up! We'd love to see progress pictures/videos while you're at it!
I'll just...leave these here... for some inspiration. lol
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