Question
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Okay, I have four hermit crabs, and one is currently underground.
One has been acting a bit odd and he stops sometimes and sort of sits. His legs are spread out and he is out a slight more than normal. He looks flopped.
His antenna do not move when he's like this.
When not in this position, he is the picture of health.
I've also seen one other of my crabs do this.
The tank is 10 gallons. There's enough sand for him (the largest crab) to molt. It's 75% humidity, the temperature is usually 79 F.
But recently, the temperature has gone down, getting to around 73 F. I turned on my UTH.
I give salt water and dechlorinated water. I feed them fresh fruits and veggies. They have things to climb on and places to hide.
I'm pretty knowledgeable about crabs, I'm scared that another will die.
And another question: Is there anything I'm doing wrong? I've had a few unsuccessful molts and seemingly out of the blue deaths.
Thanks so much,
Nikita.
AnswerI can see why you are worried. He is either premolt or yes, there is a chance that he is having issues. There isn't a lot you can do for him at this point. The only thing I can see with your setup is the diet. You say that you feed them fresh fruits and veggies but crabs have many more dietary needs than those. They need tanins (maple leaves are great for this) they need fresh proteins (preferably steamed unseasoned shrimp with the tail still on) calcium, chitin (both of these they can also get from the shrimp)
Check out my hermit crab food site www.hermitcrabcuisine.com
