HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I'm considering a UVB light for my tank because of its benefits but I just wanted to know from anyone with experience with UVB lights if there was a noticeable difference with their crabs.

Jonathon

I know you should find previous crabbers experiences by using the search function (on webforum, top right below where you'll find the user control panel).

I found my crabs were a lot more active during the day, darker in colouration (my Aussies were less pale), and generally ate more. Many find similar as well.

aussieJJDude wrote: ↑

Tue Jul 20, 2021 12:01 am

I know you should find previous crabbers experiences by using the search function (on webforum, top right below where you'll find the user control panel).

I found my crabs were a lot more active during the day, darker in colouration (my Aussies were less pale), and generally ate more. Many find similar as well.

I've heard similar reports. Thanks Aussie!

I'd like to know people's experiences with UVB lighting over their hermit crabitats as well. Some sources I've researched say there's no evidence to support UVB is beneficial to them. Then you have sites that suggest it's needed and you have to go through the steps of having a bare fluorescent fixture inside your crabitat.

Studies have shown that UVB does not penetrate exoskeleton like it does with skin. They also do not utilize Vitamin D. So Whatever effects it does have for them is completely different than in vertebrates.

One thing to consider when using UVB lighting is that it is very destructive on plastics. I use it for a few of my reptiles, and their plastic plants, eggcrate and other plastic items will discolor and eventually disintegrate - sometimes in as little as a year.

Thanks. I wondered about the plastic degradation, because it was recommended to me to run a UVB lamp in a plastic under cabinet style fluorescent fixture. Without a reflector above the lamp it just didn't seem right to me.