HCA: Hermit Crab Association

Hi I have bought some coconut fiber and a bag of Zoo Med repti bark it’s 100% fir bark is it ok to mix some in with the coconut fiber for the substrate ? I was thinking a big layer of coconut fiber than a layer of the bark then more coconut fiber or I could just mix all together but using more coconut than bark in the mixture. Is this ok?

Bark is difficult to burrow in, so I would use it sparingly, if at all. Layers of bark would not be advisable, but you can probably get away with it as a substrate amendment mixed in with the fiber if you really want to use it.

It isn't a neccesary type of substrate and as mentioned, can make it difficult for the crabs to burrow. It would be more of an appearance thing for us to look at, but not all that great for them.

You might be able to use some of it, maybe to sprinkle a little bit around the tank as decor, but I'd personally avoid it within the substrate.

Using coco fiber alone isn't unheard of, but most people use a coco fiber and playsand mixture.

Thank you so much! !


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The fir type bedding will mold easily in very high humidity, and burying it in a mass of substrate ups the risk of bacterial blooms.

If you wanted to add a little texture, a small amount of coconut husk would work.