Zoea?

[Bonk]

Hi All, I haven't been too active on this site before, however, I finally have something to ask!

I must sound like a horrible crab owner to not change the water everyday, but it was this odd occasion I left it for several days until the scheduled re-décor. When I went to change out the water this morning, and noticed an odd smell coming from the salt-water. I swirled the water slightly, there were HEAPS of small white objects floating up to the surface. Some where tiny balls, and others were narrow at one end, then widened at the other. There was also a broken film-like substance floating on the water's surface.

This was only found in the salt-water bowl, I have never seen anything of the like, and I don't know much about breeding. I definitely have males and females, of all ages, 12 crabs in total in a 160L / 40GI. What do you guys think? I had a slight suspicion that they may have been (I hate to say it) rotting Zoea. I understand they are opaque/clear, and that they need oxygenated water for them to survive? Would the eggs need more than a few days to hatch? I'd heard they would only breed in large salt-water bodies with tidal simulation? Does it indicate that something is out with my set-up for them to breed? Will it happen again?

Any info, and or links would be much appreciated. I do have photos, but I cannot upload them. My thanks in advance.
Bonk.

[GotButterflies]

I'm tagging @Renroc for this one. She has had success with Zoea, and would be able to tell what they look like. I know the eggs are like balls, but I am unsure of coloring, etc. I have heard of food mites gathering in water but that doesn't sound like what you are talking about. Hopefully you will hear from Sue.

[Renroc]

Could be zoea that didn't make it. Eggs hatch immediately they contact the salt water but without constant movement they won't survive long. Some may have lived long enough to shed skins but it is likely that you have just got zoea sludge. Don't feel bad about not changing water daily. I change mine every few weeks but I do top it up regularly. I also have airstones (bubblers) in both my fresh and salt pools


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[Bonk]

Thank-you for the prompt replies!