How much sand should be in a 10 gallon tank for hermit crabs??

Question

i am goin' to be getting a 10 gallon tank for my hermit crabs and do not know how much sand i need

Answer 1

When I set up my hermit crabs I did not use sand. I found that using something like soil is much better for maintaining the humidity in there tank. At the store where I worked it was called Bed-a beast and is similiar to potting soil but without all the chemicals. If you want to put sand maybe put it on half and then give them a moist side with soil to. As for how much make sure its deep enough for them to burrow in and bury themselves in it. For some reason they love to dig! Also make sure they have a water dish with a sea sponge in it for drinking and that the water dish isnt kept to deep. they also need another water dish with a salt water solution in it for there "bath". Have fun with your hermit crabs! they are great! try feeding them chunks of apple or peanut butter! Mine loved it

Answer 2

I've used both sand and shredded coconut fiber (bed-a-beast or EcoEarth) for hermits. It needs to be deep enough for them to be completely covered (1-2 inches). Hermits have soft shells (one of the reasons they "borrow" shells from other animals. When they molt and move to a larger shell, they are very vunerable to predators (and each other). The need to be able to burrow into the medium to feel secure till the transfer is complete. If they don't feel protected, they may not move into a new shell and can die. The coconut fiber is easier for them to burrow into and keeps the tank more humid as it can absorb moisture (sand can't). See: http://www.hermit-crabs.com/care.html

Answer 3

A've heard that 2 pounds for every gallon is the right proportion. Maybe you can do with a little less :-)

Answer 4

about 1 bag - 1.5 bags of aquarium sand should be enough.