Substrate mix-up

[DarthKrab]

How often should I be mixing up my substrate? Don't know if it's a regular thing but I know I've seen it mentioned once or twice.

Obviously I don't want to do this when crabs are under and potentially molting, so what would you do in those situations where you need to mix but there's a guy down in there somewhere? This just seems so difficult to do seeing as some of the bigger guys can take almost two years of underground time.

[LucasBinx]

I personally never mix my substrate up. But honestly, I have been meaning to do it since it's been two years since I've added it to the tank.

So I'd say every couple years then myself. But I wouldn't really worry about trying to mix it around. I also use Eco Earth, not sand, which naturally decomposes everything eventually, too

[DarthKrab]

I personally never mix my substrate up. But honestly, I have been meaning to do it since it's been two years since I've added it to the tank.

So I'd say every couple years then myself. But I wouldn't really worry about trying to mix it around. I also use Eco Earth, not sand, which naturally decomposes everything eventually, too

I guess I just worry too much about them and right now I'm worrying if it's too compact to dig in. It shouldn't be though! I've sunk my finger into the substrate multiple times to make sure it is "sand castle consistency" and when I put it in I didn't push down at all. Substrate only gets pushed down when putting water and food dishes back

[LucasBinx]

I don't think it's possible to have sand too compacted to dig in. But I wouldn't know since I choose not to use it. The sand, and eco earth alike, will compact naturally though.

As long as it's the correct consistency, then it sounds like you're doing it right~

[DarthKrab]

I don't think it's possible to have sand too compacted to dig in. But I wouldn't know since I choose not to use it. The sand, and eco earth alike, will compact naturally though.

As long as it's the correct consistency, then it sounds like you're doing it right~

Cool! Love the picture of your cat btw.