How to Keep Crabs Alive in Tanks

Crabs are hearty animals that can thrive in captivity. Owners can enjoy watching the crab as it explores the tank and interacts with other species. Certain tank conditions need to be met, though, for the crabs to thrive and prosper, otherwise the crabs can get sick or die. The owner who knows how to care for his crabs can prevent illness and disease by monitoring the tank at all times.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermometer
  • Tank heater
  • Crab food
  • pH test kit
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the size of your crab to see how big a tank you should put it in. A 2-inch crab needs at least 1 square foot of tank floor to feel comfortable, according to the Petco care sheet.

    • 2

      Place your crabs in the largest tank that you can afford to purchase for them and adjust the temperature so that it is between 74 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Monitor the temperature of the tank with a thermometer so that you know when to adjust the tank's heater.

    • 3

      Test the tank water for the pH levels with a pH testing kit. Place a small amount of water in the test tube that comes with the kit and then test the water with the kit. The tank water should be between 8.0 and 8.2 pH in order for crabs to thrive. Follow your pH testing kit's directions, as each kit tests water in a slightly different way.

    • 4

      Feed your crabs daily. Crabs can feed off waste and algea, but they also need regular crab food. Crab flakes, plankton, and baby shrimp all help to give the crabs adequate nutrients.

    • 5

      Provide your crabs hiding spots in the tank and access to some dry ground. Build up half the tank so that dry ground is accessible, by placing sand in the tank until it is above the water level. Place driftwood, plants and large rocks in the tank for the crab to hide in.

    • 6

      Change between 10 to 20 percent of the water in the tank at least once a week. This will help to keep the tank clean and the water fresh from contamination.