In regards to the sand: when I removed the fish, I dipped all the water out that I could and then added several inches of additional sand. The new sand mixed with the old wet sand and became perfect moist sand for crabs. I rearranged the tank, kept the driftwood from the fish (the kind with several holes in it), and the crabs went nuts, climbing on any and every thing in the tank. (They really are hilarious creatures.) I also added a salt water bowl, and a bubble thing that blows air into the water, helping keep my humidity level correct. After this setup and additions, within a week or so, 3 of my crabs were digging holes, and finally disappeared under the sand. I'm hoping/guessing they were so delighted with their new surroundings, that this prompted them to molt (and not commit suicide by suffocation). A day or so later, I could see one of them through the glass, but only for a short time, as he/she dug himself/herself further into the middle of the tank, away from the side.
Fast forward to the present, and all 3 crabs have been under for about 3 - 4 weeks, tops. The remaining crab has been wandering all over the tank, up in the treehouse, climbing through the driftwood, eating and drinking like normal. And this morning, I noticed he has been digging, too - just a few indentions in the sand, so far. So maybe he's about to molt, too?
A few days ago, I noticed a faint green tinge to a portion of my sand in my crabitat, covering a 4-5 inch section of sand. It is very faint, but I don't know what it is. I'm concerned about needing to remove it? I have also had to remove left over crab food (the pellet kind) for growing some kind of hairy white mold after a few days.
So, I guess after this long rambling post, I have three questions - should I remove the green stuff? And, how long will they stay under? And what's the best way to remove poop from the sand without disturbing my hiding crabs?
If you've actually read through this entire post, you must really be a 'crabbie' person. HAHA Any helpful tips or hints would be appreciated... Thanks in advance!!
