Blue Knuckle vs. Fire Shrimp...???

[naesco]

Originally Posted by doch

So, earlier today I picked up 3 fire shrimp from an LFS... later in the evening I notice that one of the is not moving, I inspect closer and there are 2 hermits (one blue knuckle, and one tiny blue leg) eating him. Are blue knuckles known to kill shrimp and eat them, or is it more likely that the shrimp just died, and the crab took advantage? BTW, the other 2 fire shrimp seem to be doing fine.

How and how long did you acclimatize the shrimp?

I doubt the hermits killed the shrimp. However hermit crabs are predators and will kill and eat all the tiny beneficial critters in your tank, rock and sand which is the reason why they are not recommended for reef tanks. It is ok to have a couple as they are interesting to watch.