Substrate that only covers part of the tank

This is where you discuss the conditions of your crabitat -- temperature, humidity, substrate, decorating, etc.
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CrabKate
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Joined: Thu Jun 25, 2020 10:14 am
Location: San Diego

Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by CrabKate » Sun Jan 31, 2021 3:00 pm

I’m hoping to buy a new to me larger tank today and I’m wondering if the substrate needs to cover the entire tank as long as it is the right depth, content/mix, moisture etc. I’m thinking of splitting the the tank with another internal container to hold the substrate and the other side with cocoa or moss mat with “climbs” between. I’m thinking this will reduce weight and mess. Any thoughts on this idea are appreciated.

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crabbycasey
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Re: Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by crabbycasey » Sun Jan 31, 2021 3:10 pm

Sounds cool! I would say it depends on how many and what size crabs you have and if it will provide enough room for everyone when underground. Would love to see the finished project if it works out!


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Hermielover121
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Re: Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by Hermielover121 » Sun Jan 31, 2021 3:30 pm

Yes I agree with Casey it depends what size of tank and how many crabs. If you have a big tank and only a couple crabs I would say it’s ok but they do spend a lot of the time underground and up high so the more sub the better.


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Topic author
CrabKate
Posts: 25
Joined: Thu Jun 25, 2020 10:14 am
Location: San Diego

Re: Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by CrabKate » Sun Jan 31, 2021 3:49 pm

My current tank is 20 x12 the new one is 36 x18. My current substrate is 6”. I have 2 PP with 1/2 n 3/4” openings. They’ve molted twice in the 6 months I’ve had them. I’m thinking of getting 1 or 2 more crabs of the same size because when my brave and outgoing Rocky is down my shy Pinchy seems stressed so I want to make sure he has company. Rocky and Pinchy are very bonded and Rocky gives Pinchy moral support. I’m thinking of making a sand pit of 18x12x 9.

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crabbycasey
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Location: NC

Re: Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by crabbycasey » Sun Jan 31, 2021 5:54 pm

I would treat the sand part dimensions as “tank” dimensions, see what size tank that is equivalent to and then use the HCA’s tank size guide based on number of crabs! Sounds like 2 crabbies would fit for sure, but the care sheet will help you figure how many more!


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Topic author
CrabKate
Posts: 25
Joined: Thu Jun 25, 2020 10:14 am
Location: San Diego

Re: Substrate that only covers part of the tank

Post by CrabKate » Sun Jan 31, 2021 6:48 pm

Thank you will do

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