[1] The Acadian hermit crab, also known as Pagurus acadianus, can be found in the Western Atlantic Ocean, including areas such as the Vineyard Sound.

As examined by Morris H. Roberts, Jr.’s, Benedict was able to differentiate this organism from that of a very similar taxa, Pagurus benhardus, due to physical variations.

Benedict observed that Pagurus acadianus had larger eyestalks, shorter fingers of the chelae and sharper chelipeds, all of which are necessary identifiers of the Acadian hermit crab.

Once they hatch, the size of the eggs is about 0.58 by 0.64 millimeters, and can be distinguished by varying hues of red and yellow coloration, in addition to distinctive eyespots.

[10] Pagurus acadianus are often found inhabiting the shells of Littorina littorea, Thais lapillus, Buccium undatum, and Polinices heros, as concluded by William C Grant, Jr.

This fungus causes lesions, attack of the dermis, and mixed inflammatory response, therefore reducing the organism's ability to fight off infection.

In their work, Christopher P. Bloch, Kevin D. Curry, and John C. Jahoda attribute their occurrence to international commerce and global travel.

[16] Acadian hermit crabs have been cited to have two major defense mechanisms: fleeing when approached in the face of predation, or curling up and hiding in their shells.

Like many terrestrial and marine organisms alike, Pagurus acadianus will choose either method depending on the exhaustion of energy or the depleted availability of food during a threat.