HCA: Hermit Crab Association

So, it's been almost 24 hours since we set up the tank. And the thermometer has not moved from 70 degrees. I'm really getting worried that this UTH is not working properly, or just not suitable for this tank, despite it being labeled as fine for 20L tanks....

I'm getting increasingly anxious about the well being of these guys.

I put a lamp--not a heat lamp, not designed for anything other than being a normal LED lamp, over their tank in an attempt to raise the temperature. But still nothing.

I can't afford to get anything over $20.00 right now, but I am really getting stressed out.

I'm even considering using a heated blanket to help with temperature but I have no idea if that is going to work.

That said, my hygrometer is reading 80-85%--but I'm not 100% sure it's working properly either.

I need to do something--what can I do? Is there anything I can get to help with this? I'm freaking out really badly and on the verge of tears. I don't want these guys to get hurt or worse.

So I ended up using the heated blanket and wrapped it around most of the tank and turned it to high by the end of the afternoon.

It's on a timer, so it automatically shuts off every few hours, so I've been keeping it running constantly.

The temperature is now reading 75 degrees, which is a nice improvement but still not where I want it to be. Everyone seems a bit more active. Humidity is still reading 75-80%.

We're going to pick up a lamp in the next few days... I hope they will all be okay until then.

From my experience, those suggested size tank readings for UTH's are for reptiles who bask and only need one warm spot. I slapped 3 on my tank to get it to hold 80 degrees and use a lamp for 12 hours at day and switch it off at night. Also, you have it on side back not under it, right?

joe84 wrote:From my experience, those suggested size tank readings for UTH's are for reptiles who bask and only need one warm spot. I slapped 3 on my tank to get it to hold 80 degrees and use a lamp for 12 hours at day and switch it off at night. Also, you have it on side back not under it, right?

Correct, yes, it's on the side above the substrate not under the tank.

I'm going to pick up a heat lamp to help with temperature in a few days when I can afford it. And then I'm looking in to getting a 6x23 Ultratherm heat pad that should be much better than the Zoo Med I got...really disappointed in it so far. It's barely warm to the touch.

What brand is the mat? Is it insulated?
Insulating the mat correctly really bumps up the temperature.
Some brands of heat mats aren't right for hermies, as Joe said. Most people have success using "Ultratherm" heat mats from either the site Reptile Basics or the Bean Farm. They work well insulated, but the cost might be in the $20s. Pretty Amazon has some too, just order one that covers the entire area above the substrate, or almost so. 75 degrees won't hurt the crabs, safe levels are 75-85. If you insulate you will probably see some results. Good luck, reply with any questions!!