Microplastics threaten survival of hermit crabs 

The common hermit crab's habitat has been negatively affected by the presence of microplastics. Pic: Paul Kay

New research at Queen’s University Belfast has highlighted the negative impact of microplastics on the behaviour and survival of hermit crabs.

Hermit crabs play an important role in balancing the marine ecosystem, with research revealing that microplastics are negatively affecting their behaviour, including their ability during shell fight contests, which are vital to their survival.