HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I know the paint on shells is toxic for hermies, but can you put decor in the tank that has been painted? I ask bc I found a little windmill thing at Walmart that would be perfect for them to climb on and maybe spin around some. I want so badly to add it to my tank, but certainly not if the paint still affects them. Figured maybe if they weren’t wearing it, it might not be so bad. Thoughts?

Thank you!


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Pictures?

Pumpkincrab wrote:Pictures?

I was in the process of wrapping string around the metal parts in hopes they could climb on and go for a ride (got the idea from the wheels I’ve seen in some people’s tank).


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To be entirely honest, I don't know on that! I assume it would be alright, but I would wait until another member confirms.

Aquarium decorations are safe as they are non toxic and won't leech into the surrounding environment. Randomly painted items may or may not be safe. No guarantees what kind of paint was used, if it's humidity proof, what kind of coating was used. Metals can be iffy as well as crabs are sensitive to certain metals, and with decor like this they don't state what the metal is or the mix that was used. I personally don't use stuff like this because I think it is too much of a risk, I have seen others do it though.

wodesorel wrote:Aquarium decorations are safe as they are non toxic and won't leech into the surrounding environment. Randomly painted items may or may not be safe. No guarantees what kind of paint was used, if it's humidity proof, what kind of coating was used. Metals can be iffy as well as crabs are sensitive to certain metals, and with decor like this they don't state what the metal is or the mix that was used. I personally don't use stuff like this because I think it is too much of a risk, I have seen others do it though.

Thanks Wode, I’d rather not risk it. Dangit though, I think it would’ve been fun!


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