A few questions about hermit crabs?
Question by : A few questions about hermit crabs?
I’ve been researching hermit crabs for a while now, and every book and site I go to have different answers to the questions I have…. so could an experienced Hermit crab owner help me please? Much appreciated…. 
1) sea sponge….Do I need one? I know it keeps the humidity inside the tank, but is there any other methods?
2) does a heat pad go inside or out side the tank?
3) Salt water(to drink), need it or not?
4) Baths…I herd you use stress coat…do I give them baths weekly?
5) how much would you say supplies cost? I already have a tank and de-chlorinate chemical.
Thank you for any help.
Okay so no salt water. But should I have a salt lick or something else, so They can get the salt intake they need?
Best answer:
Answer by Elle
This is a great way to get information!
1. A sea sponge is important to help with the humidity. The hermits will actualy drink from it too. The only bad thing is that if not cleaned out EVERYDAY it will hold harmful bacteria.
2. Most heat pads go outside of the tank. But that only depends on the style. when you go to buy one, just ask them.
3. Never use salt water as drinking water! Salt water is used for a bath. Only use tap water with dechlorinater in for drinking water. They MUST have a bowl of saltwater for a bath, or they will literaly dry out.
4. It is probably best to have a bowl on bath water in the tank, so they can happily bath when they want.
5. Well, I bought everything at once(apart from the tank and dechlor too) and to buy the sands, toys, sponges, food, salt, bowls, and my 2 hermot crabs it was about $ 80 in total.
I have just bought some things to make a top level in the tank, and depending if your tank it 10 Gallon (40L) you will need a top level. just use some kitchen racks, and make a mat of something (i used a climbing frame and attach a ladder(find it in the bird section in the petshop.
remember that you NEED more than one crab, other wise it will die.
Hope i helped
EDIT: they will get the salt intake from the salt bath you provide them. You can also mix the salt in the sand aswell.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
