Storage Totes Not Recommended as a Permanent Home for Crabs

Crabby Abby · Post by **Crabby Abby** » Tue May 19, 2009 2:28 am

I've had this nagging concern regarding the harmful effects of BPA (bisphenol A) whenever reading of someone housing hermits in Rubbermaid storage totes so I wrote to Rubbermaid bc the 'learn more about BPA' link on their site was a dead one. They first wrote me with links to what food storage products did or didn't contain BPA. After a second inquiry specifically addressing storage totes, they assured me they did not contain BPA.Although they are safe in that regard I would like to suggest that if it's necessary to use them at all that it's only a temporary measure and not one of permanent housing. Reason being that scratches in the plastic can harbor bacteria and because even the clear totes are not the visual equivalent of glass or plexiglass and I think all housed animals deserve the benefit of visual stimulation from their surroundings.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue May 19, 2009 3:54 pm

I have mine in a storage tote at the moment. They just didnt have enough room in the 10 gallon tank. And i just started a new job so it really isnt in the cards to get a real tank right now. T_T. I wanted to leave them alone cause i did disturb them alot when i first got them. should i move them back into the tank even if it does seem to small? if they go in there, i never get to see them.

Crabby Abby · Post by **Crabby Abby** » Wed May 20, 2009 5:55 am

Adding levels and things for them to explore will maximize your space and give them opportunity for mental stimulation and physical recreation. We have a thread in the library on second level ideas. You can use stack shelves, shower caddies, storage baskets, nets, turtle hammocks, etc. Also, try hiding the food dish in different places.If they're active in the tote but not in the tank it might be climate related and not the tank itself. Had you struggled with heat before and now that it's warmer out the situation's resolved itself maybe? Or it just could be that since you only got them last month that their inactivity was caused by their need to destress and get some rest.

Crabby Abby · Post by **Crabby Abby** » Wed May 20, 2009 7:17 am

quote:So thats a yes. As I said, as a temporary set-up it's okay but I wouldn't use it for permanent housing.Besides the lighting, you can't apply a heater to plastic and it doesn't hold humidity as well as glass.Regarding the second levels, it does take them a few days to a week to find their way up to them. You can help speed that up by putting stinky food up there.