Mites

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IMS08
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Joined: Mon Sep 15, 2014 5:08 pm

Mites

Post by IMS08 » Sun Oct 19, 2014 10:25 am

Hello. I have a hermit crab in an ISO tank and I just found food mites in my salt water dish. The crab is about to molt and I can't replace the substrate without delaying her molt and putting her back in the main tank with 6 other crabs. She is a large PP and I would have to put her with another Large hermit crab, 1 medium and 5 smalls. The substrate in the 30 gallon isn't enough for her to molt, being too dangerous with other crabs but I don't want the mites to take over the tank while she's molting. What do you recommend?

I have 9 inches of substrate in the ISO don't want to get rid of it. Is there an alternative?

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IMS08
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Joined: Mon Sep 15, 2014 5:08 pm

Re: Mites

Post by IMS08 » Sun Oct 19, 2014 10:26 am

I have Eco earth. There was a mite jumping on my crab. She is very lethargic and about ready to dig down.

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wodesorel
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Re: Mites

Post by wodesorel » Sun Oct 19, 2014 12:22 pm

Food mites are completely harmless and won't bother the crab at all. There is no need to change the substrate or move her. :) I've had food mites in all my tanks for years now, and they act as a clean up crew.

Also, mites don't jump... so maybe you're seeing springtails? Those are very beneficial as they eat mold and other waste before it can cause problems.
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