How to Create a Crab Tank

Crabs are an invertebrate species that can be both challenging and rewarding to keep successfully. There are many different species of crabs, and the type that you want to keep will dictate the exact conditions of any aquarium tank that you set up. But, the basic set-up of a tank for crabs remains the same no matter what the species is.

Things You'll Need

  • Tank (at least 10 gallons, depending on the species)
  • Paper towels
  • Aquarium water heater
  • Sand, gravel or other substrate
  • Filtration system
  • Lighting hood
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean out dust and debris inside the tank using nothing but water and paper towels. Never use soap inside an aquarium, as the nitrates can kill fish and crabs.

    • 2

      Set the tank in the location where you intend to keep the crabs. Choose a sturdy surface that can support up to 200 pounds of weight.

    • 3

      Fill the base of the tank with sand, gravel, or other substrate appropriate for your particular species of crab. You may need to research a little bit about your preferred crab before proceeding. Fill the base with at least 3 inches of substrate, or more for burrowing species of crabs.

    • 4

      Fill the tank with water. Again, how much water you use will depend on the species. For hermit crabs, only an inch or two of water is needed. Fully aquatic species, such as blue crabs, require much deeper water. Some species require dry areas within the tank.

    • 5

      Insert an aquarium water heater into the water and plug it in. Set the temperature based on the required levels for your species of crab. Most species require temperatures of about 80 degrees.

    • 6

      Insert the filter system into the tank. The most common system for crabs is a back filter, which is available at most pet stores and costs about $30. Plug in the filter to begin cycling the water.

    • 7

      Allow the tank to sit undisturbed for at least 48 hours while the water acclimates to the tank conditions you've set.

    • 8

      Introduce your crab to the tank after 48 hours have passed, and set the light hood on top of the tank.