These rules are disclosed to clarify the various responsibilities of all community members here on Hermit Crabs Australia Chats. They shall be adhered to by everyone to ensure that our board runs smoothly and provides a fun and productive experience for all of our community members and visitors.

1. 
   Acknowledgement of Country
   We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters where our crabs scuttle and our tides meet.
   We pay our deepest respects to Elders past and present, and we recognise the enduring connection of First Nations peoples to sea, sand, and shell.
   
   The Hermit Crab Code of the Coast
   (Because every good crab knows the tide runs smoother with some rules)
   
   Don’t be a crabby crab
   Be polite, even when your shell’s feeling a little tight. No snapping at fellow members.
   
   Keep the tide family-friendly
   No salty language or inappropriate content—remember, there might be baby crabs in the room.
   
   Scuttle in the right tide pool
   Post in the right section so everyone can find what they need without digging through the wrong sand.
   
   Share safe crab wisdom
   Bad advice can leave crabs high and dry—make sure your tips are safe, accurate, and kind.
   
   Lift up every shell in the tide
   Our reef has crabs of all kinds—different shells, speeds, and ways of thinking. Be patient, inclusive, and supportive of neurodiverse members. Every crab belongs here.
   
   No crab left out of the rainbow reef
   Every shell shines in its own hue! Our LGBTQ+ crabs and allies are celebrated and safe here—love flows freely with the tide.
   
   Help crabs find the right current
   Many new keepers have been given poor or outdated advice from pet stores. We welcome them with open claws—kindly share correct, up-to-date information without shaming or judging.
   
   No shell trading without permission
   Selling, swapping, or trading shells or crabs must follow the Marketplace tide chart (see rules).
   
   Give credit where credit’s due
   If you didn’t find the treasure yourself, credit the original finder.
   
   No unwanted barnacles
   That means spam, ads, or endless self-promotion. A helpful link here and there is fine, but don’t overcrowd the rock.
   
   Protect your shell
   Don’t share personal info like your home reef or treasure chest location.
   
   Respect the reef guardians
   Moderators are here to keep the waters calm. Listen if they tap their claws.
   
   Have fun in the tide
   Share stories, photos, and crabby adventures—this is your beach, too.
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2. 
   Marketplace Tide Chart
   
   (Because even in the busiest current, good trading keeps the reef calm and fair)
   
   Only trade with calm claws
   Keep every interaction polite, patient, and honest. No snapping, guilt-tripping, or salty messages.
   
   List clearly, price fairly
   Include clear photos, honest descriptions, and fair prices. Don’t bury hidden costs in the sand.
   
   No live crab sales
   Selling or rehoming live hermit crabs is not allowed here. Every crab deserves a safe, known tide pool to call home.
   
   Shells only, not the sea itself
   You may sell or trade approved items—shells, supplies, decor, or handmade crab gear. No selling pets or prohibited materials.
   
   Be transparent like tidewater
   If a shell is damaged, resized, or artificially altered, say so clearly. Honest tides keep the current flowing smoothly.
   
   Respect reef safety laws
   Follow all local regulations and shipping rules. Don’t ship natural materials where it’s not permitted.
   
   No barnacle spam
   This isn’t a dumping ground for constant ads or self-promotion. Post mindfully—let others have space on the rock too.
   
   First come, first claw
   Once you agree on a trade or sale, honor it. Backing out or ignoring messages leaves others stranded at low tide.
   
   Use safe payment currents
   Avoid risky waters—use secure payment methods only. Never send or request “friends and family” payments for strangers.
   
   No name and shame in the surf
   If a trade goes wrong, contact a moderator privately. Don’t stir the tide publicly or call out other sellers.
   
   Moderators steer the current
   Reef guardians have the final say on what can or can’t be sold. If they wave their claw—pause and listen.
   
   Keep it crabby, keep it kind
   We’re all here to share good shells and good vibes. Be honest, courteous, and helpful—so every deal feels like smooth sailing.
   
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