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Tank Upgrade and Transitioning

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 12:51 pm
by sillycoconuts
I got my hermit crabs from someone who didn't want them anymore about 4 years ago, expecting them to live not much more than a year. But here we are, four years later, with the crabs nearly doubled and size and me who has grown very attached.
I've moved them from their original house to a ten gallon, and then to a 20 gallon about three years ago. But now they have grown quite a bit and need some more digging space so I've bought a 29 gallon tank and I am planning to move them in soon. However, I'm wondering if there is a way to transition them smoothly and reduce the stress from moving them. For example, is adding some EE/Sand mix from their old tank going to make them feel more comfortable? I know hamsters and rodents like to have their "smell" on some objects when moving to a new enclosure. Any help or recommendations are appreciated!

Re: Tank Upgrade and Transitioning

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 1:44 pm
by Xenocrab
When I move my crabs into a different tank, I make sure that it's 100% stable as far as heat/humidity, substrate, etc. I dip all the shells in salt water and add their regular toys, climbers, hides. Fresh foods and waters. I set them in and leave them alone. They like to explore, so sit back and watch!

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Re: Tank Upgrade and Transitioning

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 6:10 pm
by sillycoconuts
Ok, thank you. I moved the crabs a couple hours ago, and they’ve eaten, taken a drink, and are climbing around. I’m so glad they are making themselves at home!

Re: Tank Upgrade and Transitioning

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 7:15 pm
by Xenocrab
Glad to hear that!

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Re: Tank Upgrade and Transitioning

Posted: Fri Jul 26, 2019 8:20 pm
by curlysister
When I upgraded, I used the sub from the old tank and just added to it for the new tank. So I didn't have a chance for the new tank to adjust to proper conditions. I just put the new sub in the new tank, put the crabs in a temporary bucket, added the old sub and all the décor from the old tank to the new one, and then added the crabs back in! Then I kept a close eye on the conditions for a couple of days to ensure nothing crazy happened, LOL.