Leeches can be great pets for people who don't mind being squeamish.They are unique creatures to keep in a fish tank, they can survive for several months without food, and require minimal care.Like any pet, you have to know how to feed and care for it.This isn't too hard for you.
Step 1: Purchase a large glass tank that is at least 2 gallons.
You can invest in a fish tank at a local store.About 50 Leeches can live comfortably in 1 gallon of water.This is dependent on the type of leech and their environment of origin.50 leeches can live in a 10 gallon aquarium.Pond leeches are best with 1 to 2 per gallon.
Step 2: Buy your leeches from a bait store.
If you catch leeches on your own, you can either use a small dip net to collect them from the pond or use an instrument to remove them.You can buy them at a local bait store.Ask the staff at the store what kind of food and space they need.
Step 3: The fish tank should be filled with water from a pond or stream.
A barrier is created at the top of the aquarium to stop the leeches from escaping.Use spring water, dechlorinated tap water or water from the collection site.Chlorinated water is harmful to the leeches' metabolism and should never be used.The water should be clean and cool.If you want to get rid of chlorinate in tap water, fill a container with water and let it set for 1 to 2 days.You're good to go once the smell of chlorine fades.You can buy a water dechlorinator from a hardware store.
Step 4: The temperature of your tank should be between 60 and 70 F.
The temperature range for most aquariums is 76 to 80 F, but you can widen it a bit for leeches.They can tolerate temperatures from 40 to 80 F.A hang-on heater is the best option for temperature maintenance.The heater needs to be 5 watt per gallon for small tanks.3 watt per gallon is required for larger tanks.Keep an eye on your tank's temperature to make sure it stays within the correct range.
Step 5: To create hiding places, pour 2 inches of gravel into the tank.
You can pour more if you want, but the standard amount is around 2 inches.This makes it easier for your leeches to hide.You can add plants and shells.Take plants from the area around the pond and put them in your tank.Purchase plants and shells at pet stores.
Step 6: Put your leeches in the tank and cover it with a tight fitting lid to stop them from escaping.
You should pour your leeches into the tank.You can place them in one-by-one if you have a small amount.The top of your tank should be secured with a screen lid.Leeches have the ability to squeeze through small openings.Purchase a screen lid from a store.
Step 7: Put your tank in a dark place away from light.
The majority of leeches don't like light.They can harm the leeches if you keep them out of the sun and artificial light.If you cannot find a location away from light exposure, you can cover your tank with a towel.If your aquarium is partially covered with a towel, you can place it outside in the winter.
Step 8: When the water gets dirty, you should change the tank water every 3 to 7 days.
It's time for a change when the water smells or looks dirty.The skin of the water is a sign that it is dirty.To change the water, use a bowl or measuring cup to scoop out old water from the top of the tank.The tank should be filled back up after removing 25 to 50 percent.Change 25 to 50 percent of the water at a time.The leeches can be harmed by sudden temperature changes.You should change your water at least once a week.
Step 9: The leeches need to be fed once a week.
leeches can go months without eating.It's best for captive leeches to be indoors once a week.If you have leeches, you should always ask for food recommendations from your supplier.All leech types work with 1 earthworm.After an hour, remove the dead food from the tank.Feed your pond snails if you caught your leeches in the pond.Fresh beef liver is typically required by medical supply center leeches.Frogs, fish, and earthworms are some of the best sources of food for leeches.Stick with one of the food sources if you're unsure.Don't feed your animals during the winter.