My first large crabitat and I need some help!

[Cylara]

Hey guys I bought a 55 gallon tank on impulse this weekend and my head it swimming with all the things I need.

First question, is UVB necessary? I only have ecuadorian and Caribbean crabs right now but I plan on getting some violas at some point.

If UVB is necessary how would you guys recommend putting the light in? I don't have a lid for this tank so I was planning on just doing 2 DIY glass lids but I've read the glass will filter out the uvb so do I need to get like an aquarium hood with the light fixture in it? Could I just do one side with the hood and one side with the glass? I know humidity is already an issue with a larger tank so I was wanting to just do 2 glass lids and mounting a light above the tank (for viewing purposes)

Speaking of humidity do you guys think I should put bubblers in the pools I'll put in there? Do I put the bubblers in the salt water pool also?

Also any information on false bottoms would be great. I am not sure if I'll make one yet because I just wanna get this set up done lol

I'll probably have lots more questions but the lid and light is most pressing right now
Thanks for reading and any advice is appreciated!!

[soilentgringa]

UVB is controversial atm. Some groups maintain that it is absolutely necessary, while some of the veteran crabbers here have never used it and have crabs over a decade old.

There is little evidence to support that crustaceans use vitamin D to process calcium like reptiles or mammals. UVB won't penetrate their shells and it is very unlikely that it penetrates their exoskeletons to reach any of the internal structures. We are still researching this.

I use bubblers in both of my pools.

If you are just starting out, I would recommend waiting until you have some experience before trying to find exotics. They tend to be a little more delicate and not as able to handle temp/humidity fluctuations that are common in the early stages of maintaining and setting up crabitats.

If you search the DIY thread for false bottoms, you will find some info. Using one is a personal choice. Whether or not you have one, your tank can still be at risk for bacterial blooms and oversaturation.

[Cylara]

Thanks so much! I'll keep that in mind about the exotics and maybe stick with what I've got for awhile