Crabitat backdrops?

[Mystic_Moon]

Hi!! I’m very new to hermit crabs, but I’ve been researching them for a while and have been looking into adopting within the next few months.

I’m going to be using a UTH on the side of the tank after finding that heat lamps zap humidity. Most crabitats I see use some sort of backdrop for the tank, I assume to insulate heat so the crabs don’t burn themselves, my question is, what backdrops do you guys recommend? Any brands or specific materials? Any/all help is really appreciated :]

[curlysister]

Welcome to crabbing and to the site. Crabs won't burn themselves against a side or the back where the heat mat is - they will just move away if it is too hot. I have never had a 'backdrop' for any of my tanks. Sometimes - depending on the brand of heat mat and how the temp inside the tank is - we will insulate over top of the heat mat, in order to hold more heat in.

[Mystic_Moon]

Welcome to crabbing and to the site. Crabs won't burn themselves against a side or the back where the heat mat is - they will just move away if it is too hot. I have never had a 'backdrop' for any of my tanks. Sometimes - depending on the brand of heat mat and how the temp inside the tank is - we will insulate over top of the heat mat, in order to hold more heat in.

Okay! Thank you so much ^^

[ROSIEonFIRE]

I had a backdrop that I made out of eggcrate covered with burlap but it was just to provide a climbing structure.


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[kaivatony]

Welcome! You’re totally right — using a UTH on the side is a solid choice for maintaining heat without wrecking humidity. As for backdrops, many people use things like cork sheets, foam board, or even thick cardboard wrapped in foil to help insulate. Just make sure there's a little space between the UTH and the tank wall to prevent hotspots. Zoo Med and Exo Terra make some decent backing materials, but even DIY solutions work great if done safely. Good luck with setting up your crabitat!