Red-clawed crabs are an easy pet.In addition to food, these small creatures need a safe enclosed space to live and grow.A living environment that keeps your crab happy and healthy can be created with a few careful steps.
Step 1: The size tank you need to determine.
A tank between 5 and 20 gallons is most likely appropriate.The number and size of crabs will affect the volume you choose.Stress and disease can be caused by an overcrowded tank.One crab per square foot is the recommendation.
Step 2: There should be a lid.
The tank needs a secure lid as crabs like to climb and can do so on almost any surface, including tubing.The crab will not be able to escape the tank.
Step 3: It's up to you if you want the decor.
Red-clawed crabs like to climb, hide, and dig, so you need to provide them with items to interact with.
Step 4: The items include an aquarium filter, a heater, air stones, and a thermometer.
Keep your tank clean, warm, and oxygenated with these tools.Make sure they are compatible by buying them with the tank.Some tanks might have some of these tools with them.
Step 5: A UVB light is necessary.
During the summer and winter, red-clawed crabs need 14-16 hours of daylight.They need the UVB light to stay healthy.
Step 6: There is a well-lit area where the tank should be.
The crabs will get the light they need to stay healthy if they are near a window or other light source.
Step 7: There is a mounded surface in the tank.
Red-clawed crabs breathe air.They need high areas above the water line that they can reach by walking or climbing.You can either add a ramp for this purpose or use the decor items.
Step 8: Add the remaining items.
The pebbles/sand should be placed at the bottom of the tank.There are hideaways and plants.If you want your crab to feel secure, place them in accessible spots and make sure they are large enough.
Step 9: The tank should be filled with room temperature water.
Red-clawed crabs thrive in lightly salted water.Add the sea salt to the tank.The crab can reach to breathe above the waterline.
Step 10: Maintenance checks can be performed daily.
To ensure that the tank is clean, warm, and oxygenated, you will need to conduct daily tests to make sure the filters are not blocked and the water temperature is not too cold.
Step 11: The water should be tested on a weekly basis.
You will need a test kit to check the water's pH.The pH level for red-clawed crab should be between 7.5 and 8.5.Test kits can be purchased from a pet care store.
Step 12: You can change 10% of the water on a weekly or monthly basis.
You can remove nitrates and ammonia from the water by changing it, as well as remove other toxins and pollutants that may build up in the tank.Add an equal volume of new tap water back into the tank when you scoop out the old tank water using a vessel like a large cup or small bucket.
Step 13: The filter should be cleaned.
It's possible that your filter is mechanical, chemical, or biological.Depending on the type of filter, it will need to be cleaned every 1-2 months.The cleaning will involve rinsing the sponge or pads and scrubbing the tubes.The owner's manual will include specific instructions for cleaning your filter.To make sure the filter continues to function properly, follow these.
Step 14: The tank lid has holes.
Red-clawed crabs are able to escape through holes in the lid.If necessary, replace the lid.