I got a set that came with a tank, sand, and all the starters for hermit crabs, then they send the crab in the mail. It's coming next week, and i can't find anywhere on how often i have to change the sand! PLEASE i really need to know!
2006-10-03 09:39:12 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
ONCE A WEEK
2006-10-03 09:43:43 · answer #1 · answered by Arial Lee 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Did it also come with a temperature and humity gauge? Hermit crabs require a tank(10 gallon minimum for 1-2 crabs) temp in the 70's and humidity at least 75-80%. Did it come with an under tank heater(UTH) or light to help maintain temperature? If these things aren't correct your crab will die a slow and painful death by suffocation. Its gills will dry out and it won't be able to breath.
That said, if you have the sand, I would mix in some Eco-Earth, Bed a Beast, or Forest Bedding. Its all generally the same stuff, but it will help you maintain good humidity as it holds moisture well. Makes sure your sand mixture(substrate) is deep enough for your crab to dig down and molt/destress.
When your crab arrives put it in the tank and most importantly, LEAVE IT ALONE for a while. Ideally, a month. Crabs are EASILY stressed and if you bug it too much, he will lose limbs and die.
Once a crab makes it through destressing and a molt, you're pretty much good to go for a looooong time, as long as you can maintain the tank properly.
Good Luck and enjoy your new addition! Crabs are fabulous!
2006-10-04 09:18:23 · answer #2 · answered by mommy2mymunchkins 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
How often you change the substrate depends on the kind you use. Sand should be cleaned or changed once a month or every six weeks and Forest Bedding or any other coconut fibre substrate can stay in the tank a bit longer. I use Forest Bedding and I only change it when it gets too wet (my crabs tend to tip over the water dish), which is every few month.
2006-10-03 16:48:30 · answer #3 · answered by LiverLaster 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to change it if you see mold or bugs. Regular maintenance depends on the size of the tank and number of crabs. I believe that is small so every 2 weeks.
The instructions you got with the kit are probably insufficient. I have listed a site below that should help you.
2006-10-05 19:05:02 · answer #4 · answered by Betty 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
every 2 hours
2006-10-03 16:46:20 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
i don't know. but i wish to know.
2006-10-03 16:48:16 · answer #6 · answered by I am marrying her only. 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋