HCA: Hermit Crab Association

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!

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.

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

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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!

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 Most of the free pamphlets at pet stores have incorrect or extremely outdated information.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!

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