How is the response of the periwinkles and whelks likely to affect the population of hermit crabs?

The response of periwinkles and whelks, both of which are predators of juvenile hermit crabs, can significantly impact hermit crab populations. If these predators increase in number or alter their feeding behavior, they may reduce the survival rates of juvenile hermit crabs, leading to a decline in their overall population. Conversely, if periwinkle and whelk populations decrease or shift their diet, hermit crab populations may rebound. Thus, the dynamics between these species can create fluctuations in hermit crab numbers depending on predator pressures.