not sure what kind of mite this is

[crystal9534]

i've looked all over the web and can't figure out what kind of mite these are. they're not attached to my crabs, just wandering around the tank, and multiplying quickly. if they're not harmful, i guess i'll leave it alone, but they're ugly to look at. i have a 10 gallon tank with the "i think" coconut fiber that was compacted into a disk. uth that's on the side by the food shell, heat lamp with 60 watt bulb, usually about 75 degrees in the tank, screen lid with plastic wrap around it

[Rebecca C]

Hello there and welcome to the HCA!

Those look like food mites; which, are completely harmless. There is a wealth of all kinds of information here and anything you cannot find, we are happy to help you figure things out. Here is a link to the article on mites: http://hermitcrabassociation.com/phpBB/ ... 25&t=92530

[crystal9534]

thanks rebecca! is there a way to get rid of them/prevent them from popping up so much? i deep cleaned my tank about 2 months ago, boiling the substrate for about 45 minutes, and washing the decor in hot soapy water. they just now popped up again X(

[wodesorel]

They are native to our environment and are found in our homes. They're drawn to the heat and humidity of the crab tank and are given a food supply, so they tend to be found in greater numbers there. Cleaning the tank is a temporary measure only, as more will show up within a few days from the surrounding area. They do act as a clean up crew and they help to prevent mold growth and aide in the breakdown of wastes in the tank.

[crystal9534]

alrighty, i'll just leave em be then thanks a bunch guys

[Persia352]

Hello!

I had the same problem when I just used Eco Earth by itself. Mix it up with playsand will help solve the problem. More sand than Eco earth Good luck!

[wodesorel]

Hello!

I had the same problem when I just used Eco Earth by itself. Mix it up with playsand will help solve the problem. More sand than Eco earth Good luck!

This usually doesn't make them go away, but camouflages them against the sand the so they aren't as noticeable. Feed something like the love - like banana - and they'll show up right quick!