HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I have a 20g tank, and I want to make a pool for my crabs. I've already ordered a bubbler, but I'm not sure how to go about making the actual pools - any suggestions?

Most use tupperware bowls. They're probably the best choice for a 20g, other methods would be too big for a 20

I have a 29g and use rectangular plastic storage containers from the dollar store for the pools.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b59 ... hhznwc.jpg

To make pool cleaning easier, I've "doubled" the pools using 4 containers: two pools are sunk into the substrate with about 1/2" remaining above ground, then a layer of marbles is placed into the bottom of both pools (marbles make a more uniform "seat" for the top pool than pebbles do) -- this allows the "top" pools to easily be lifted out for cleaning without having to re-dig holes for them. Each top pool has a layer of pebbles, a few clam-type shells, a small plastic aquarium plant and a craft mesh ramp to aid ingress/egress.

Crabinski wrote:I have a 29g and use rectangular plastic storage containers from the dollar store for the pools.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b59 ... hhznwc.jpg

To make pool cleaning easier, I've "doubled" the pools using 4 containers: two pools are sunk into the substrate with about 1/2" remaining above ground, then a layer of marbles is placed into the bottom of both pools (marbles make a more uniform "seat" for the top pool than pebbles do) -- this allows the "top" pools to easily be lifted out for cleaning without having to re-dig holes for them. Each top pool has a layer of pebbles, a few clam-type shells, a small plastic aquarium plant and a craft mesh ramp to aid ingress/egress.

Thank you so much! the photo really helps

Crabinski wrote:I have a 29g and use rectangular plastic storage containers from the dollar store for the pools.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b59 ... hhznwc.jpg

To make pool cleaning easier, I've "doubled" the pools using 4 containers: two pools are sunk into the substrate with about 1/2" remaining above ground, then a layer of marbles is placed into the bottom of both pools (marbles make a more uniform "seat" for the top pool than pebbles do) -- this allows the "top" pools to easily be lifted out for cleaning without having to re-dig holes for them. Each top pool has a layer of pebbles, a few clam-type shells, a small plastic aquarium plant and a craft mesh ramp to aid ingress/egress.

Clever! I like the way you think!

Crabinski wrote:I have a 29g and use rectangular plastic storage containers from the dollar store for the pools.

http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b59 ... hhznwc.jpg
I've "doubled" the pools using 4 containers: two pools are sunk into the substrate with about 1/2" remaining above ground, then a layer of marbles is placed into the bottom of both pools (marbles make a more uniform "seat" for the top pool than pebbles do) -- this allows the "top" pools to easily be lifted out for cleaning without having to re-dig holes for them.

I did the same it make it so much easier for my cleaning. An added bonus is that sometimes my crabs dig under them and it gives me quick acess to check up on the every now and then and it doesn't disturb them.

I've actually been making pools for people! And they would fit in a 20 gallon



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But they're super easy to make.

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@pinchersparadise, those are beautiful pools. Where can you get those clear containers from? I've seen many tupperware containers but they all look too opaque.

prismatik wrote:@pinchersparadise, those are beautiful pools. Where can you get those clear containers from? I've seen many tupperware containers but they all look too opaque.

Looks like some critter keepers to me. Could be wrong, but KK have similar shape plus they both clear!

Yup, similar to the kritter keeper, but a different brand.

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Thank you

I don't have a 20 gal yet, but I would personally like the pools to be more deep than they are wide so the hermies can wade at the bottom

I had been looking for the mini paint trim trays, but all Walmart/dollar tree/Home Depot had been carrying for MONTHS were these deep bowl things with a long handle for hanging on a ladder.

FINALLY I found the shallower/tilted entry (like paint roller trays, just mini), and I HATE them. WAY too shallow for my two large PPs. I'm honestly thinking about buying this betta tank: http://www.amazon.com/Penn-Plax-Twin-Bo ... B0002DJGCS

Just not sure it would be wide enough?

I personally do not put plastic of any kind in my tanks if I can avoid it. The only plastic I concede to are the temp and humidity gauges.

My pools are glass (Pyrex) or ceramic baking dishes. Right now I have rather shallow ones at 2-3" (cake), but I'm going to upgrade to bread pans which should be 4" or so.

I get them at 2nd hand stores.