do emeralds molt?

[jhale]

my gf found either a dead emerald on the bottom of the tank,
or one has molted. she sent me a photo but I can't tell from the
photo. it looks just like the crab would, but it's on it's back.

 

[jhale]

 

[ScottK]

I believe they do molt, but I can't tell from the photo if that's what you've got.

 

[herman]

This species must molt in order to grow. Generally at night, it will lay on its back and exit its exoskeleton. A new exoskeleton is excreted and will harden over a period of several hours. The animal is vulnerable at this time and should not be disturbed. Proper iodine levels assist with successful molting.

Quote from petsolutions...

 

[ctxmonitor]

yup, they molt for a fact. Because I was thinking the same think "ah, **** two of my emerald just died"... Few days later, I see why do I see still three emerald crab??? They when I realize it must have been their molts.

Danger, Danger.. Your emerald is getting bigger, so they could destory bigger things..