HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hey. I have a problem with my hermit crab, Edward. I got him and 3 other crabs a little over a month ago. They have a 30 gallon(I know it’s 10 gallons small) with 7 inches of substrate, dechlorinated salt and fresh water, and a complete diet. Not sure on heat and humidity because my hygrometer and thermometer broke a few weeks ago. Anyways, Edward has been completely fine for the time I have had him. He has been eating, climbing, and drinking regularly. This morning, I noticed that he was slightly hanging out of his shell(might be a little too small but he hasn’t done this before). I sprayed the tank because it was slightly dry, and plugged in an extra heater. I came back after school and noticed he was only an inch to the right of where I had seen him last! In an attempt to see if he could walk, I lifted up the climbing thing he was under and let him walk. He started to climb but stopped and has been idle ever since. He is coming in and out of his shell(in when I come to look at him). Is my baby okay? Is he just resting? Is he getting ready to molt? If anyone has experienced something similar with their crab before, please help. And what was the outcome of your situation. I love him so much I would be devastated if this was the end of our time together.

Thanks, kingedward

Heat and humidity are important so you may want to get new gauges, they could be playing a role if not right

Otherwise this is often a sign of weakness in new crabs. Keep providing energy-rich foods and maintain heat and humidity while you monitor


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If your crabs aren't large, 30 gallons is fine. HCA doesn't go by 10 gallons per crab - it depends on the size of the crab.
Have you ordered a new thermometer/ hygrometer? You will need to get one asap, to ensure that your temp and humidity are appropriate.

Thank you guys for the help! He is now very active and I got a new hygrometer+thermometer! Heat and humidity are both around 80. He has been eating(or atleast touching his food). He still hangs out of his shell every few days but I think he might be cleaning it because I can see his smaller legs in the back moving.

I have 1 large crab, 2 medium sized crabs, and a tiny crab.

Good to hear!