HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hello!

Recently we moved into a new place and the HOA sprang on us the fact that our row of houses will be getting fumigated/tented next month (30 days from now). We just got our new 55-gallon crabitat set up, which is the problem.

We know, obviously, to take the crabs out and put them in a temporary storage bin crabitat for the duration - put them in the temporary one a few days prior, wait a day or two after we come back to the house post-fumigation to let them back in. However, what should we do about the tank? Since it's 55 gallons we can't just up and take it with us, but we do not know if covering it/sealing it will be enough, even if we let it air out for a few days post-fumigation.

Does anyone have experience with this? Besides temporarily moving the crabs themselves, do we have to remove everything from the tank, throw away all the substrate, and start from zero post-fumigation?

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Since the crabs will be gone, turn off the heat and seal the entire tank up airtight with plastic and packing tape to the bottom rim. Mummify it. I would put anything crab related that won't be bothered by the humidity inside before you do. Once they're done fumigating and it's safe for you to return, the tank will also be safe once the plastic is removed.

If you have the space, bring any remaining crab supplies with you - food, air pump, etc. If that's not possible, seal it up tight as well using jumbo zip locks, taped up storage bins, etc.

I would also check with your HOA first just to make sure on what the exterminators will be allowed to do. Depending on what they are battling and how your rules are written, they may be permitted to unwrap the tank. In that case, try to gut it prior to leaving and put the tank outdoors.