Hermit Crab Care And Tank Set Up
If you are thinking about getting a hermit crab as a pet, then you need to know how to take care of them properly. They are fascinating creatures to watch and can live for up to 15 years if cared for correctly. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about hermit crab care and tank set up.
What are Hermit Crabs?
Hermit crabs are not actually true crabs. They are part of the superfamily Paguroidea, which includes about 1,100 species. In the wild, they can be found on the beach or in shallow water, and they use empty snail shells for protection. As they grow, they need to find larger shells to live in, and they will often fight other crabs for a shell that is the right size.
Types of Hermit Crabs
There are many different species of hermit crabs that are kept as pets, but the most common ones are the Caribbean hermit crab and the Ecuadorian hermit crab. Caribbean hermit crabs are smaller and are usually found in pet stores. Ecuadorian hermit crabs are larger and are often kept as pets by enthusiasts.
Setting Up Your Hermit Crab Tank
The first thing you need to do when setting up your hermit crab tank is to choose the right size. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 5 gallons of space per crab. Hermit crabs are social creatures, so it is best to have more than one in a tank.
You should also add substrate to the bottom of the tank. This can be sand, coconut fiber, or a mixture of both. The substrate should be at least 3 inches deep to allow the crabs to dig and bury themselves.
You will also need to include decorations such as rocks, driftwood, and plants. Hermit crabs like to climb and explore, so make sure there are plenty of things for them to do in the tank.
Temperature and Humidity
Hermit crabs are tropical creatures, so they need to be kept at a temperature between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a heat lamp or a heating pad to maintain the temperature in the tank.
Humidity is also important for hermit crabs. They need to be kept in an environment with a humidity level of 70-80%. You can achieve this by misting the tank with water and placing a shallow dish of water in the tank.
Feeding Your Hermit Crab
Hermit crabs are omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. You should provide your hermit crabs with a variety of foods such as commercial hermit crab food, fruits and vegetables, and protein sources such as shrimp, fish, and chicken.
It is important not to overfeed your hermit crabs. They will eat until they are full, so make sure to remove any uneaten food after a few hours.
Cleaning Your Hermit Crab Tank
It is important to keep your hermit crab tank clean to prevent bacteria growth and to keep your hermit crabs healthy. You should spot clean the tank daily by removing any uneaten food and feces.
Every 2-3 weeks, you should do a full tank clean. This involves removing everything from the tank, cleaning the tank with a pet-safe disinfectant, and replacing the substrate and decorations.
Conclusion
Hermit crabs can make wonderful pets if you take the time to care for them properly. Make sure to choose the right size tank, provide the proper substrate and decorations, maintain the correct temperature and humidity, feed them a balanced diet, and keep their tank clean. With the right care, your hermit crabs can live a long and healthy life.