please help me. there arre these little black flying bugs in my hermit crab tank!! will they hurt my crabs?(i have 9 hemit crabs) and what do i do to get rid of them??? please help me!
A Google search found these solutions.
http://hermit-crabs.com/FAQ.html
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Reptiles-704/hermit-crabs-1.htm
http://www.petshub.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-7853.html
oh thx! now i finally know how ta get rid of them and i was sooo scared of them!
You're welcome.
I can understand your concern about the little black flying bugs in your hermit crab tank. Here's what you can do to address this issue:
1. Identify the bugs: Firstly, try to identify the type of bugs you are dealing with. Take a closer look at their appearance and behavior. If possible, capture one or take a clear picture to aid in identification.
2. Assess the potential harm to your hermit crabs: While I cannot directly evaluate the specific bugs, if they are gnats or fruit flies, they are less likely to harm your hermit crabs directly. However, it's essential to monitor your crabs for any signs of distress caused by these bugs, such as increased stress levels or avoidance of certain areas in the tank.
3. Remove organic debris: The presence of these bugs could be due to decomposing food or organic material in the tank. Start by thoroughly cleaning the tank and removing any leftover food, shells, or other organic debris. Dispose of these materials outside of the tank.
4. Adjust feeding practices: Review your feeding habits and make sure you're providing appropriate amounts of food and removing any uneaten food promptly. Overfeeding can contribute to bug infestations. Consider using feeding dishes or containers that are easier to clean.
5. Inspect the substrate: Check the substrate in the tank, such as sand or coconut fiber, for dampness. These bugs often thrive in moist environments. Allow the substrate to dry out slightly between misting or watering.
6. Physical removal: You can use a small handheld vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle attachment to suck up the bugs. Another option is setting up traps like apple cider vinegar traps or sticky fly traps specifically designed for tiny insects. These traps attract and capture the bugs.
7. Biological controls: If the infestation persists, you can introduce natural predators like predatory mites, nematodes, or beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs or beetles). However, it's important to research thoroughly and consult with an expert to ensure compatibility and appropriate usage.
8. Monitor and repeat as necessary: Keep an eye on the situation over the next few days. If the bugs persist or multiply significantly, it may be best to seek advice from an aquatic specialist or a veterinarian with experience in hermit crab care.
Remember, prevention is key to avoiding future infestations. Maintaining good hygiene practices, proper tank maintenance, and monitoring your hermit crabs' environment will help keep them healthy and free from unwanted pests.