Replacing Substrate

[nkurz]

One of my hermit crabs has been hiding and I haven't seen him in a while. It is time for me to replace my substrate but I don't know what to do about the hiding crab. I can't remember the last time I saw him, but I remember him hiding for long periods before. As a new crab owner, I am not for sure what to do, so any feedback will be appreciated!

[Motörcrab]

What do you mean "time to replace the substrate?"

Unless you have a tank emergency such as a bacterial blooms of a flood you shouldn't need to replace the substrate. Some people have had the same substrate for years.

[Xenocrab]

I agree with Motorcrab. No need for a substrate change.

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[nkurz]

Thank you! I read that you should replace the substrate every 6 months and it was getting close to that time. I did not know that you could have it that long. That makes it a lot easier!

[Motörcrab]

There is an awful lot of incorrect information about hermit crabs out there unfortunately. Most of the free pamphlets at pet stores have incorrect or extremely outdated information. Xeno and I can honestly say since finding the HCA almost three years ago and following the care guides and asking lots of questions we have learned a lot of information. Not only that but we also noticed our crabs become more active and really growing compared to before.

I highly recommend reading through our care sheets. There is a lot of useful information there to get you started. It's a great place to help troubleshoot issues you may have.
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Oh yeah! Welcome to the HCA!

[GotButterflies]

I have never replaced my substrate. I only add to it.