Hermit crabs are incredible crustaceans that can live very long in the right conditions. If you are thinking of buying some crabs, either terrestrial or saltwater, you will need to provide them with a tank in good condition and food. Also, once you have built their habitat they are very easy to care for.
Choose a large enough tank
If you are buying two crabs, your tank should have at least 57 liters of space. In addition, it is essential that the tank has a lid to prevent crabs from escaping and to ensure that it retains enough moisture. For best results, use a mesh cap with plastic wrap. Hermit crabs breathe through gills. Therefore, if their humidity is less than 75% they will die slowly and painfully.
Put sand on the bottom
Crabs need to burrow during molting, which is the process that allows them to grow. Therefore, you will have to put enough sand in the tank. Purchase litter from a home store, as litter from pet stores often contains harsh chemicals. In addition, you will have to mix the sand with the substrate to obtain a consistency similar to that of a sand castle.
If you have land crabs, you could also add leaves and bark, although it is not necessary if your terrarium contains sand and organic soil.
Provide places to hide
Place at least three large empty hermit crab shells for each crab in your tank. These shells will provide shelter and shelter for the crabs as they grow. Also, they can be found in pet stores. You can also include a hollow log for them to climb and shelter.
It is imperative that you never use painted shells, as they are dangerous and can be toxic to crabs. If you can, also buy branches and vines for the crabs to climb on. Sure will thank you!
Pay attention to temperature
The temperature of the tank should be between 24 and 28 degrees, so it is essential that you use a temperature controller and an LCD thermometer. Remember that if the temperature is too cool, your crabs could get sick or even die.
Also, although the temperature drop at night is normal, the tank should never stay below 22 degrees for a long time.
Feed them properly
Hermit crabs are scavengers, so they have a very diverse diet. You will have to provide seaweed, proteins in the form of meats, worms, shrimp, fresh fruits and vegetables. Likewise, crabs also need cellulose, which is present in the bark of cork or grape wood.
