Crablover Don On: Molting
MESSAGE 298
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Thu Nov 4, 1999 8:40pm
Subject: Molting worries.....wet/dry substrate
Folks may I suggest that you
read up on all that you can find on molting...there are really no black and
white 'textbook procedures'... but some very enlightening observations out
there. There are no set/exact time tables or time lines for the molting
process. Molts are individually determined by the crabs need to regenerate
appendages or for their natural 'growth' process... Here at Kritterlandusa, we
have molters year round and each molt, while similar, cannot be determined as
to how long the process may take... or how long the crab will take to'bounce'
back.
Some smaller crabs MAY molt
often while the larger guys might not molt for a year or two. So please don't
sit with watch... waiting for it to happen...because you heard there is a
'season'or that you had that crab for this or that period of time! Folks, it
'ain't' that simple! Nature knows best and when the time comes, it comes!
Nature by design of the shell as a home and the crabs 'soft tissued underbelly'
has a purpose here. Prior to a molt, crabs store extra water within their
shells to help with that extra hydration needed for them to shed their old
exoskeleton in the molt process. Contrary to popular myth, most hermit crabs do
not molt OUTSIDE of their shell and many do not go under the substrate to molt.
Fact:
molting is very stressful
for the crab at this time... their new exoskelton must harden as they are very
vunerable at this point. As little disruption as possible is necessary, thus it
is recommended that you isolate the molter from the others by blocking off an
area of isolation for him or transporting others to another area so he is not
disturbed. The more secure he feels the more readily he will be up and about
quicker. Never dig a molter up ... when isolating a molter have a small amount
of food available and a small shell of water close by IF they so desire to
partake. (I use a half-dollar size clam shell with a snip off a sea sponge for
the water source ....) The worst thing you can do it start wetting the sand
around him! Bacterial growths harm a molting crab as often as a 'bad molt'...
as they cause additional stress to the already stressed molter... a drier and
warmer area of choice is usually better... If you have any questions about how
to prepare FOR a molt, do it ahead of time. Call or e-mail FMR for other
particulars.... READ comments on other sites... Before you decide that you HAVE
to do this or that, CALL FMR for advice...PLEASE, do not take it upon yourself
to decide to soak them,because you think....often, what one mightfeel is
necessary is often not the best for your crabs, etc. ...in cases that the
unusual happens Kathy at FMR can help you determine what action to take.
Folks, if you have several
'diggers' at one time, it is possible that they are looking for a more
desirable temperature....and are NOT 'ready' to molt.
Their crabitat may be too
warm or cool. Remember the goal is to MAINTAIN a constant temperature range...
not 'jumping to a too warm to cold environment...(see heating tips, etc. that
were previously posted as they can apply here...... Sorry, Cindy, I know you
don't like to have to go back through previous post, but there is some good
advice there) There are tell-tale signs that usually signal an oncoming
molt.... such as: less antennae activity, dull-look of their eyes (like a
cataract on a human); behaviorial change...and seeing them in or near the water
dish more than usual.
Crabs also
love to burrow for this purpose. Some just dig to entertain themselves...
'sneaking' up at night... to eat and drink.
Hope some of this helps.....
Happy Crabbing!
CLD
Message 419
From:
CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date:
Thu Nov 18, 1999 3:48am
Subject:
Fwd: Some answers for Diana
The crabs the new store I found called
"medium" were what other stores we selling as "large".
This is often true... there is no
universal method that sizes a crab... People use common items such as coins,
fruits, nuts, sports balls, etc to refer to sizes.... i.e.: 'smaller than a
dime', about the size of a walnut, softball sized...and so on... My two fifty
plus range from 'blackeyed pea size to a large fist size'....
Would it be possible for you to post
some pictures of the different species somewhere. Sometimes it is really hard
to identify stuff from just written descriptions. Might help
everyone with questions about what species we have.
Diana, if you have trouble with the
three main grouping of crabs...REDS, PP's and "E's" from written
descriptions your head would be spinning with the two hundred plus some species
of hermit crabs. Within these three large groups there are too many variations
for you to assume a picture could identify what you have. there are sites out
there that you can get an idea of what some of the more exotic crabs might look
like, but unless you are a researcher, trying to id a common crab is near ly
impossible. that is why we try to refer to the MAIN groups that we see and deal
with.... All crabs that are tan are not always "E's... if their large claw
is bluish/ purple it is considered a "PP"... "Reds" the
simple color... "E's' come in all shades.... but the EYES are their
telltale feature.... and the manner in which the cross their legs over their
claw... You will just have to trust us on these facts...and ask if you are
uncertain... Most picture I have seen of folks crabs are seldom clear enough
with close-ups, etc. without getting a more detailed description of the eyes
and retraction into a shell....
>Seems I've read somewhere that the
larger crabs were easier to keep healthy.
Not sure what you mean here... the term
'easier to keep healthy'... Good common sense motivated crab care usually
dictates the health of crabs... if they are in good shape when you 'adopt'
them. Now taking care of various sizes... Not always true...that one size is
'easier'or better than the others... The big guys do not molt as often but
their molts are more than often much more stressful than those of the smaller
guys....who molt more frequently... Much of this hoopla is personal
preference... sort of like sand verus gravel... There are folks who love the
settled personalities of the large crabs and others who prefer the antics of
the babies. I love my teenie guys as much as my jumbos... older guys are
usually/generally more 'laid back' and less active.... and usually have more
gentle dispositions... when handled and made accustom to 'human touch'... The
little guys are the 'fun' guys on a whole with all the action..
Many people are afraid to tackle
raising "E's"... but they have been my personal challenge to improve
their chances of survival... They do require a little more care and attention
to their care, but the results of my work has been well worth it!
Hope this helps some.... more about the
special needs for your "E's" later....
Happy Crabbing! D
Message 527
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date: Sat Nov 27, 1999 9:55pm
Subject: Re: my molting crab plus a little more...
Cindi:
Thanks for the 'vote' of
confidence in listening to my advice. In this past week, I had four different
people mail me saying that they lost their molters do to TOO MUCH moisture. The
problem lies in the fact that people tend to do TOO MUCH after the molt begins.
By nature, a crab will store
extra moisture/water inside of their shell PRIOR to their molt...in order to
expand and explode the exo skeleton. Usually enough moisture is retained to
allow their new exo to harden... too much moisture can cause their newly
developing limbs to actually become too hydrated and in some cases fall off.
Like in pre-natal care for women, pre-molt care is just as important in our
guys... Those Stresscoat baths, extra calcium... and plenty of fresh
dechlorinated drinking water... prepare and 'set them up' for a better and
easier molt. That is often all that is needed... until 'that time.'
Nature normally takes over
and most of the time all goes very well. They do need a quiet,place to be left
undisturbed and free from outside stress for a few days until THEY are ready to
take on the world! We have had many great above the substrate molts here at
Kritterland with two
hundred-fifty plus guys.... Eight are doing their 'thing' right now.... I do
keep a slightly damp sponge (in a clam shell in the iso tank...) for the fact
that one of the fellows might decide to visit for a 'drink' or some extra
moisture.
The smaller guys often find
solace in the entrance of a larger unoccupied shell... which makes a quick
check easier... trying not to bother them anymore than necessary. I often use
an eye-dropper to drop a drop or two of the 'treated' water in the larger
shell.
Remember this is for ABOVE
molters.... It is not a good thing to go digging up those guys who are UNDER
the substrate... more than often people want to go this, but more harm is done
than good. I do believe in allowing nature to take its course. I have to...
If I only had a couple of
guys to care for, it might be different. I have never had any bacterial
problems and few bad molts with my guys since using these methods and keeping
the substrate dry. A bacterial outbreak would be disastrous for us.
Again, whenever I have a
doubt, I call Kathy at FMR. There are situations that might call for special
attention, but through updated info and research, the advice I try to pass
along is from the heart and from 'tried and true' knowledge. When ever in doubt
of doing something, do as I do.... CALL KATHY!!!!
(Remember it was pointed out
that some of the info in the FMR FAQ section is outdated and because of some
tech difficulties they have been unable to get into it to update some info.
Hopefully, this will soon be updated and corrected....The care sheet and health
tips are up to date.)
As one becomes a more
seasoned crabber they will find methods, etc. that may work better for THEIR
situation, but for the newer crabber I would rather present and share the
basics with you.... and take a safer route so that your earlier days of
crabbing might be smoother 'sailing' than full of heartache in trying out all
that you may have heard.
You will soon 'learn' your
crabs and realize those guys that want thta 'extra' attention and the ones who
just want to be left alone... The more you handle them and let them get more
accustom to your 'smell', 'feel' and 'voice' through this interaction the more
apt you will be in learning their individual demeanor and 'personalities'...
Try 'hand-feeding that little shy guy.... or a 'spritz of a mist' will often
bring a fellow out.... there are those who are recalcitrant who will 'out sit'
you.... but don't give up... they, too, will come around!
Good Luck, Thanks and Happy
Crabbing!
CLD
Message 575
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Fri Dec 3, 1999 1:30am
Subject: Fwd: Molt/Moult.... REPOST FROM 11/26 on STRESS COAT
Misty:
Vanessa posted the
following last Friday (11/26).
It is in the daily
digests and was sent to the group as a whole. Hope it will help. You can always
check back and read other posts for other information you may have missed. They
are in the 'digest' area of our community. Hope this helps...it is pretty much
self explanatory but it you have further questions mail me direct. Happy
Crabbing! CLD
<<I have a question
if anyone can tell me. What is stress <<coat, is it absolutely necessary,
and is it really safe?
Hi Cindy,
Before I met Don and CrabMania I didn't
know what stress coat was. In Australia we are told to bathe our crabs once a
fortnight (two weeks) in a weak solution of water and rock salt crystals. This
is mainly due to the fact that aussie hermies are closer to the water than
their US relatives. On my webpage I had some instructions on how to give hermit
crabs a salt bath.
CrabMania found my page while shopping for online hermie
products and was a little distressed because she thought that the salt baths
would harm hermit crabs that were not of the Australian variety. She owned an
Ecuadorian hermit crab which she adds "a little pinch in one of my water
bowls for my Ecuadorian crabs. That's it."
Crab Mania also stated that "Once a week I bathe my crabs
in a formula called stress coat. I put 3 drops in per gallon of
water. Stress coat has been proven by FMR (Florida Marine Research-
I can give you their number if you'd like) to help keep up the production of
the natural oils in their gills. Essential to their health. It also
doesn't dehydrate them like salt does. In fact, if keeps them moist, making the
molt process easier."
Pretty soon after I received that email from CM I made a note on
my website that salt baths should only be given to Australian hermit crabs.
CrabMania then emailed her friend CrabLoverDon (which I have
been eternally grateful for - I have learnt so much from CLD!) and he wrote to
me about Stress Coat with Aloe. I will share part of a long email here for you
(hope you don't mind, CLD?)
"Hi Vanessa:
My name is... Crablover Don. Cerissa (CrabMania)
shared your letter with me about the salt baths and your interest in my
research and interest in using the DECHLORINIZER With the Stress Coat (Aloe
Vera) properties. I have around two hundred and forty little guys here at
Kritterlandusa... We have PP's, Reds and about a third of my guys are
Ecuadorians. I have been 'Crabbin' since February '97.
The reason for my interest in trying this
particular dechlorinizer was because of the new water guidelines put forth from
FMR. and the fact that I was unable to stabilize my "E's" for longer
than a month or two... I believe these guys are very similar to the fellas you
are accustomed to in Australian. Most water conditions here in the
US have so many minerals and chemicals that I have used dechlorinizers for some
time to to prevent blisters and other maladies related to using regular tap
water... Since FMR believes that water suitable to fish life is suitable to use
with hermit crabs, I sought out a way to 'help' my little fellas...
Vanessa, to clarify the
situation, I have often stated that hermit crabs do not REQUIRE the stress coat
formula but it does aid in the healthy maintenance of the gill function
necessary for their breathing. It is true that the crabs do not have the exact
'slime coat' as fish, but they do have a protectant factor similar to the
'slime factor' in fish. This 'factor' is necessary to keep the hermit crabs
gills moist and functioning well. As noted in the posts..."E's"
require a trace of 'seasalt' in their drinking water and the saline is known to
'strip' away some of this protectant.... I checked with FMR and other fish and
crab experts to verify my thought that aloe vera would not harm my guys. This
was verified.
Noting FMR's statement about water conditioning,(
as noted on the care sheet that any water good enough for fish is good for your
hermit crabs.) I asked several aquatic experts around here to see
what products they used for their fish care. Each used stress coat formulas...
only differing by brand names sold by their store! We tried and researched
several of these products before I even thought about posting about them! I wanted
and needed help in seeing my"E's" could survive. I personally feel
prevention is better than sitting back and doing nothing to help them stay
healthier. Before I even started using this formula I discussed it
with Kathy at FMR. In fact she posted a follow up on the HWO board concerning
it.(It is under Water Questions... around April 3 or 4th...)
Vanessa, I have a personal commitment to
myself to never recommend or suggest anything that I really don't believe in or
that I have not researched/used myself. The opinion, of course is mine, but the
option is that of anyone who wishes to try its use. From my experiences, the
stress coat formula has been very beneficial in seeing my Ecuadorians
successfully molt...in the past, my "E's" (Until my use of
the aloe vera base, I never had a successful "E" molt...
we now have the 14th guy ready to rumble!) Many of us have have had a history
of our larger reds and pp's not making it through molts...along with myself,
several others have used the s.c. and had successful molts of our larger guys..
I have had a jumbo complete a successful molt without incident and to date
several other larger guys have molted without problems. I stick by the results
that I have had with my own experience. "
So.. I hope that answers your question!
Thanks CLD and Crabmania :)
Vanessa.
Message 592
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Sat Dec 4, 1999 1:20pm
Subject: Re: missing limb question
Jennifer:
That little 'dab' of 'gel'
is the 'regeneration' of his missing leg... before long that leg will be back!
The new leg will be smaller
than the lost leg, but don't worry later molts will allow a 'catch-up'. As for
the other fellow , he, too, will regenerate that feeder claw... in due time.
Some crabs are said to be 'thrown' into a regrowth with the loss of a leg,
others will regenerate the missing claw/leg when nature takes its course. Good
Luck and Happy Crabbing! All will be well.... CLD
--- bluejay4@a... wrote:
> From: bluejay4@a...
> I just noticed that one of my new small crabs is missing one
leg. He gets around really well without it, though. My question is this: Where
the missing leg should be, he has this clump of whitish gel stuff. I don't know
how else to describe it! One of my old crabs is missing his grasping claw, but
he doesn't have any of the gel stuff. What is it? Thanks!
Jennifer
Message 668
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Thu Dec 16, 1999 1:27pm
Subject: Re: Exo Question
Hi Jenn:
I used to 'save' it...
but no one really seemed to interested as you mentioned. So now I usually just
'pitch' it out... Have had a couple of thoe quick re-bounders, but I think that
it might just be 'in their constitution'... I was once told that the guys
ignore the exo after a period of time as it dries out only 'chowing down' on it
while still a freshly molted material... but with these little guys, who knows!
Happy Crabbing!
Don
--- Jennifer Borgesen amborg@a... wrote:
DeeDee and Spike rejoined the rest of the tribe today during
snack-n-bath time. I just completed cleaning up the ISO tank for the next guest
... which leads me to my question ....
What do you-all do with the left over bits of exo? I usually
pitch them out but have been wondering if I should put the leftovers in a shell
for the group at large.
I did do this last time and it was pretty much ignored ...
except for Spike who molted shortly there after! I've gotta say his molt was
one of the best yet. He was walking around ISO 24 hours after his molt! He
could have gone back to the group but DeeDee was still a bit sluggish and I
didn't want her to be lonely.
So whaddaya say? Scrap 'em or serve 'em?
:)Jenn
Message 670
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Thu Dec 16, 1999 2:40pm
Subject: Re: Question about exoskeleton...Stop the Worry!!!
Diana:
What I said was: "I was
once told that the guys ignore the exo after a period of time as it dries out
only 'chowing down' on it while still a freshly molted material..." This
comment was made in reference of 'saving' old exoskeletons... a person
mentioned they couldn't understand why their crabs didn't eat the others
discarded exokeletons that she had been saving for a period of time. You have
to remember that the old exo basically is shed from water pressure 'popping'
the old away from the new... 'freshly' as opposed to dried out (which would
take several days to dry out under normal conditions... not unlike the shell of
a shrimp)
In a regular molt, it often
takes days for a crab to regain the energy to eat away on his exo ... most of
mine do this... but there are those few exceptions ....like Jenn mentioned... I
have had several of my "E's" up and around before I realized that they
had even molted. It depends on the individual crab. There is no need for you to
worry. You have to be patient with a molt... few are exactly alike. The best
advice I can offer to you is allow the fella to rest... Too much "handling
and checking on" a new molter is quite stressful. Give him a few days...
Many times, they are eating away on the softer parts of the exo and working
their way out to the rest of it. Many of my guys eat ONLY what they want to
eat... leaving the majority of the discarded claws and legs... and all have
done very well. Just let nature takes its course
... I know that the
desire/temptation to peek is overwhelming, but this is a great first and
hopefully a new start for you and your guys... you don't want to *jinx* it with
worry! Good Luck and Happy Crabbing!
CLD
--- Diana Pederson plantaholic@s... wrote:
Hi Crablover Don:
You stated
that the crabs don't like dried out exoskeletons. My crab molted
overnight but has not eaten any of his old exoskeleton (at least as far as I
can tell). Is this bad news for the molter? You have me
really worried now. A little reassurance would be helpful right
now. Should I pick up the molter's shell and make sure he is still
alive.
This is SCARY!!!!!!
-- Diana
Message 678
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Fri Dec 17, 1999 9:50am
Subject: Re: My first moult
Hi Cindi and Diana:
It is usually a good idea
to wait about a week or so before you reintroduce them back into the fold... if
you are 'familiar' with the crabs 'personality' you can gauge their activity
level pre and after molt... and determine when to return them. Again each crab
does bounce back at their own rate of speed and nothing is writing in stone.
The basic rule of thumb though is about a week to ten days after the molt...
but that is only a guideline. How this helps some...
Good Luck and Happy
Crabbing! CLD
--- rcl rcl@n... wrote:
Hi:
My molter is has eaten his exoskeleton (after all my
worrying!). He is now sitting with his legs showing outside his
shell. Does this mean he is ready to rejoin the colony (means taking
his iso unit off of him)? I hope someone that knows the answer to this responds
because I have been wondering the same thing. With my first two that molted it
was no problem because they buried themselves in the sand and came out when
they were ready, but with Yendor who is doing it above and in iso, I will be
wanting to know when I can take the barrier out:>)
Thank you for all the advice I've received both on the list and
privately. Hope my questions aren't too "dumb" but this is
my first molt. I do not think your questions are dumb. This is my third molt
and I am still full of questions:>)
Diana Pederson wrote:
By the way is it spelled moult or molt? (Probably a
matter of American English versus Great Britain English for spelling.)
Ya know, Diana, I wondered about that too!! I have seen it
spelled both ways!!
Talk to you all later!!
Cindi L. Vicksburg, Mississippi
Message 717
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Thu Dec 23, 1999 11:02am
Subject: Re: Molting Question...Attn.: Jennifer
Hi Jennifer:
Don't think you are being
'ignored'... Just that this time of the year, boards seem to be slow with folks
going out of town, doing finals or just getting ready for the holidays.
As far as losing legs during
(or right after) a molt... It is not what I would call 'normal', but it often
happens. There are probably many reasons for this additional loss... but many
times, it appears that the little fella could not shed that 'one little piece'
of their old exoskeleton... and they will damage leg or claw trying to get off
completely...
Also, the 'new' exo is
usually quite delicate and can break off easily... Another reason to allow them
to rest as much as possible ... Some guys will try to do more than they are
capable of doing... others will take their time in recovery from a molt...
another one of those nature/ personality things!
It seldom affects them... if
this is the case. Those legs will regenerate and come back as did the one your
guy previously lost. Now, if he continues to lose legs or a claw, this is the
time to 'worry' and would necessitate a call to FMR.
If you really have a
pressing question you can mail me directly (kritterlandusa@y...) or e-mail
Kathy at FMR (fmrpets@g...) or during business hours M-F (5-9 EST) call Kathy
at 1-800-535-2722. I imagine things will be quite slow on the boards for the
next few weeks... Happy holidays and Happy Crabbing! CLD
--- bluejay4@a... wrote:
Another one of my crabs has molted! He was missing one
leg, which grew back to almost normal size. But now he's
missing another leg! I guess he lost it in the molt. Is
this normal?
Jennifer
Message 735
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Mon Dec 27, 1999 5:41pm
Subject: Re: Another Christmas Molt!
Great News!
See I told you the best
molts are the surprised ones! "Grumps" didn't have the 'worried,
hovering, concerned Mom' watching over her and she "done good" with a
molt... Way to fly GRUMPY and Congrats Christa that is a great Christmas
present! Now you will be able to relax ... and look forward to other successful
molts without having to get Drew to tie your hands behind your back... Just
teasin'...
Happy Crabbing!
Don
--- christa.malik@s... wrote:
> Hi, all!
> Some (most?) of you've seen my post on the LHC board. But
I'm so proud of my little Grumpy that I have to send this out to everyone and
let them know!
>Also, Melissa, it is absolutely WONDERFUL that Noodle has
molted! In his picture he is just so CUTE! I really hope he makes it!
Message 774
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Sun Jan 2, 2000 6:06pm
Subject: Re: Moulting inactivity
Hi Marti and Christa;
Brenda offered you some
pretty good and solid advice on what you might expect from the questions you
asked... I will take it a little further and try to expand on those answers
Brenda provided ...adding a few cents of my own. CLD
--- Brenda Cumbee bcumbee@g... wrote:
> From: "Brenda Cumbee" bcumbee@g...
> Marti and Christa
> I hope what knowledge I have may help.
> >Question 1: Is a total lack of movement normal for this
length of time?
> I'm trying to be patient but am nonetheless worried, and From
when Hypie Molted I was scared about his nonmovement which was for about a
couple of days. But I think they need this time to regain their strength. I
really don't know how long some stay inactive.
> @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
A molt is extremely
stressful to our guys...and the 'rest' that follows is to allow them to regain
their 'energy/strength' and for their new exo to 'harden'... Size usually plays
a big role in the 'bounceback' period! For some smaller guys who molt more
often, they as usually less stressed... but the larger guys who might be a year
or two between molts, often have a rougher time. Of course, there are those
many exceptions... the best advice is to allow nature to take its course at
that point! If a crab had a good 'storage' of moisture already within his
shell, and the exo to munch on, then he might not be 'moving' around too much.
I have a friend who had a jumbo "E" that was down for over six weeks
molting... and one person I know of had a fella down for two months! On an
average a couple of weeks can be expected for a medium/large guy for a 'normal'
molt... but that is a 'ballpark' figure. I have had teeny guys ready to rumble
in a couple of days... and others a week or so... it really does depend on the
individual conditions and demeanor of your fella.
> > Question 2: I am
concerned about the lack of moisture and run a humidifier for an hour twice a
day. There is NEVER condensation on the inside of the cage and the humidity
level doesn't seem to get above 40%. Does anyone ever run a humidifier under
careful watch?
> I've never thought of running a humidifier? The only concern I
would see with running one would be what water to use in it.
Brenda is right, you would
need to be concerned about the water... but personally, I would like to see you
attempt to use the sponge in water/undertank heater method of creating
humidity. There has been some 'debate' about using a regular humidifier with
the guys. PLUS you really want to MAINTAIN a pretty good level of humidity at
all times.... so your method would have its pitfalls. The humidity level, like
the temp level really needs to be measured at the substrate level since that is
where your guys spend most of their time... The sponge method has worked quite
well for many folks... You might want to check out some of the posts in the
message archives relating to it.
> > Question 3: On an unrelated item, I've noticed CLD talk
about a 5 gallon ISO tank. How does one "move" a moulting crab to
ISO?
> Do you wait until the crab actually starts acting funny, but
prior to the actual moult? My understanding was you have to create an ISO
inside the present tank or move the other non-moulting crabs.
> I think some do move the hermies when they start acting
different. Other move them once they have noticed the molt. From what I gather
they just pick them up shell and all and move them to the ISO. I would think it
would be less stressful to just make an ISO in the tank it is already in.
Each bath day, I play with
and 'check out' EACH of my babies! I look for various signs of molt or other
possible problems. IF a fellow is sluggish or shows some indication of a molt,
then he will be placed in one of the several heated iso tanks for closer
observation. But, many of these fellas have surprised me and 'up and molted'
without warning!
With these fellows I use
dividers to build an area around then for a little protection. It is best not
to disturb a molter... and if you must it should be kept to a minimum of time.
Most of my guys have molted above the substrate... and a couple of times it was
necessary for me to transport a fella to a separate iso unit.... I used a
regular spoon and gently lifted the guy, exo and all, at one time...and gently
placed him in the iso tank. I prefer to use a dividing area in the main tanks
for this, but there are those times... and I always have at least one of the
iso tanks set up, properly heated and with acceptable humidity... as a big
fluctuation of temps might do more harm than good. If the main tank is already
consistant heat wise you are far better off in using dividers for your fella
(also, some great suggestions in the archives on this too!)
> > I hate to disturb Spray , the little guy, but in changing
his water yesterday accidently touched him and there was 0 response.
> I'm tempted to do something more drastic to see if he's still
alive..
>
> I picked up Hypie and checked on him evey other day.
> As long as you don't bother him too much I don't think it
would hurt to check him. From what I gather if he had died you would know by a
fishy smell. Hopefully he is alright. He may just need some extra time to rest
up.
I fully agree... You will
KNOW if he really passed on, from THAT SMELL! If you do decide to 'check on
SPRAY, do keep it to a bare minimum... A fella in this stage of molt is so
vulnerable and really requires some time to regain energy...You really don't
want to create any further stress by picking him up and handling him too
much... he might relate the intrusion as a possible predator or feel that you
expect him to 'show himself' and entertain you... warmth, moisture and quiet
are several keys to a better molt experience for most guys.
> I hope I've helped some. I know how it is to worry over one of these little creatures.
> Brenda
Brenda! You "DONE
WELL"!!! Good ADVICE!!! Now we will be expecting more input from you! Hope
you have Great Crabbing Days in 2000! CLD
Message 778
From:
CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date:
Mon Jan 3, 2000 8:43am
Subject:
Re: a molt
Jad:
The BEST thing you can do for him at
this point is to leave him alone! No dips, no more mistings... He is probably
already at the highest stress point and if he makes it through everything he
needs to be left alone so he can start to regain some energy and to allow the
new exo to harden. made sure the area you have him in is warm, and quiet...away
from activity, etc. Place a dampen sponge close by incase he needs it. Check in
on him PERIODICALLY by looking but I would refrain from anymore 'handling'...
this could cause him a great deal of damage and/or stress...that he might be
unable to handle in his present condition.
By 'pulling' his little body out of his
shell, there may have been some damage to his delicate exo... not to mentioned
additional stress. The fact that he is showing a little movement is
promising.... If you MUST transport him, carefully/gently use a spoon to 'lift'
him, shell, exo and all to place him gently/carefully into the new place...
If you need to, e-mail me direct! Good
Luck and keep us posted! CLD
--- "Jad B. Johnson" Jad@a...
wrote:
Well, I got back from a week
long stint in Tampa Bay for the Outback Bowl (Go Dawgs!) around 2:00 am last
night, and Red had molted. I'm very concerned and would appreciate
advice and prayers. When I saw the bits strewn about I
panicked. I didn't know how long he had been like that. I
have only had one successful molt, so I immediately thought that he was
dead. I threw away the exo and pulled the body out of the
shell. There was no "dead smell" but I thought that he
maybe had just died and hadn't developed it yet. It was then that I
felt a tiny bit of movement. I got the 1 gal. ISO tank put shells and
water in it and got the exo out of the trash (it was on top and still
clean). Finally I draped a towel over it. I checked on
him this morning and he was moving. I can't tell you how
happy I am, but I am also still quite worried. Do you all think that
the time I held him in my hand and sprayed him with water "stressed"
him out too much. Is ok it to dunk him in stress coat solution or is
it too late, or maybe be better to mist him with SC? I have a 1 and
2 record with molts. Any reassurance will be
appreciated. Thanks. Jad
Message 812
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date: Wed Jan 12, 2000 8:16am
Subject: Re: Kosh is molting!
Beth:
Sounds like you did your 'homework' and you have done GREAT!!! You did things very well....especially making the critter carrier iso part of the larger tank to maintain temp and humidity... That is always a problem when you end up with a surprise molt. AS small as KOSH is, he will probably do well... He probably won't bother the food at all til he is up and about in a few days... Congrats! Hope things are lookin' up for you... and Happy and BETTER Crabbing in 2000. Tell Delenn to 'hold on' it will be her time soon!
Really, she can probably
'see' Kosh and won't feel too deserted.... I use "plexiglas"
'dividers' to separate molters if I can... so the molter doesn't feel too alone
and the others can 'see' him, also...
Way to go Beth! CLD
Message 831
From:
CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxxx>
Date:
Sat Jan 15, 2000 1:15pm
Subject:
Re: Kosh update
Beth:
You have done it! Kosh soundslike he is
ON TRACK!
My teeny and small guys usually bounce
back very quickly! I do wait a couple of days after I notice the activity in
the iso before returning them to the fold. With just getting the three new
guys, it might be best to hold off a couple of days...
Intros at bathtime is also a great
idea... neutral territory! Wish you luck with all your guys Delenn won't know
what to do with all the company! Congrats!
To you as Crabmom and to KOSH the
successful molter!
Happy Crabbing! Don
Message 859
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date: Thu Jan 20, 2000 7:18pm
Subject: Re: Twins, Triplets and plexiglas.....
Vanessa and Christa:
We have several sets of twins
too! Plus a set of triplets to boot! TWEEDLE DEE--TWEEDLE DUM, ME and (my)
SHADOW... SPECK and SPOT... DASH and DOT... are a few of our little 'twin'
sets! SAM and SAM TING and HIM TOO are the triplets....(S.T. in honor of
Christa's SAM TING) All of our multiples are little hyperactive Ecuadorians.
Christa... about the
plexiglas thing! You already know that I use plexiglas for setting up my iso
areas within a tank...and why I find it better for my molters. It really is
easier in the cooler months to assure that the temperature and humidity levels
are
more consistent, just being
able to set aside an area for a molter or two. May I offer a better alternative
to a tank divider (which I bought, but seldom used) It is to buy a sheet of
clear Plexiglas and have it cut so you can create the area that you want to
cordon off. Most craft stores and many frame shops sell it... or you can get a
sheet at a place like Home Depot... (they usually sell it to replace glass in
windows...and most places will cut it to your specifications) Using some clear
bookmakers tape or adhesive tape, you can connect these pieces to 'fit'
corners, "free standing" areas... really any number of unlimited
configurations...
Even though I have several
iso tanks set up and ready to go I do prefer to have the guys 'closer' to their
buddies during this time. Last week when my little BARNEY started to act odd, I
'fixed' him a corner of one of the main tanks just 'in case'... then I actually
saw him shimmy out of his exoskeleton! He was not himself at bath time, but
other than that he showed little indication that he was about to molt..
However, a few minutes
later, right before my eyes, that little guy popped his exo and like you or I
might take a turtleneck sweater off... he slid 'out of' that old exo... he
wagged his antennae and retreated back into his shell...staying pretty much
'dormant' for a couple of days... I had witnessed a few other molts, but none
so quick and easy as he did it! He is up and around some... enjoying 'his'
sponge...I had a small piece of sponge that I keep wet for the molters... his
'exo' long gone... his coloring is starting to come back some...at least it's
not Mary Kay pink anymore!
Several of his buddies sat
outside the plexiglas wall looking in on him. As odd as it may sound, these
guys seem to sense when one of their own is 'down'... He had a 'buddy' in with
him who also decided to 'do the molt thing' that same evening... LITTLE BUD was
already 'blocked' off in another tank, but I decided to put he and BARNEY together...
I used a mirror on one side (so I could observe them and not disturb them
during this time... WORKS great!!!) and the plexiglas on the other sides. It
was so cute to see their buddies and well-wishers looking in on their 'downed
comrades'! Several of them kept a vigil right there against the 'wall' looking
in on their buddies. This was the second molt for "LITTLE BUD", but
the first for dear little "BARNEY". ... Both fella did well and are
up and around but not quite ready to return to the 'flock.' Am anxious to have
both of them out and about with the group real soon! "BARN" is one of
the resident characters in his tank... Plus he loves Bath Day... Where he can
play with/in the fresh fruit and then 'swim' and play!
Have six molters in various
stages of molt as I type... What FUN! One of our big boys surprised us with a
molt earlier in the week and he is doing great!
I am glad he just went on
and surprised us... as I still worry when my larger fellas get ready to molt...
If you decide on the 'section' thing, let me know and I will be more than happy to explain it further...
Happy Crabbing!
Don
Message 902
From:
CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date:
Thu Feb 3, 2000 9:02am
Subject:
Re: Jumbo Molt
Trena:
It has been my experience that the
bigger guys do take a great deal longer to bounce back after shedding their
exo. Give HERCULES a few more days to see if he starts eating his
exo. Some of my bigger molters, have actually left some of the exo
uneaten... especially the large claw which seems to be stronger and probably
less tasty than the other parts! I would not worry unless you begin
to smell THAT smell! Congrats to you and HERCULES!!!! Don't you love
those 'unexpected' molts... less tension on the caretaker... Wish all my guys
would 'surprise' me! Good Luck and Happy Crabbing!
Don
---
tbean tbean@a... wrote:
From: tbean tbean@a...
Hello,
A
few days ago, our biggest --Hercules, molted without warning. He is
a jumbo about the size of a fist. His eyes had been looking a litttle paler
than usual, but I had no idea it would be so sudden (esp. after it took Neville
4 months to molt after his eyes went pale). He molted in one piece
and is still alive. My concern is that he isn't eating his exo. It
has been about 5 days now, and he hasn't moved or touched the exo. I am
thinking he just needs to rest some more, but is it normal for a big guy to
wait this long before eating? Thanks for the info., and I am really sorry to
hear about all the crab deaths recently.
Message 909
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date: Thu Feb 3, 2000 2:50pm
Subject: Re: Hercules eats his old self
Trena:
Good to hear about HERCULES
and his progress!
Sounds like he is
progressing well. You asked about lengths of time between the shedding of the
old exo until the fella starts to eat his old exo... I have had three personal
experiences with jumbo molts and each took a different length of time... from three
days to a week...
If you remember from the
first LHC Board, we had a person who had large guy under for two months... Lord
only knows how long in this case! As long as he has started munching he is
coming around... but will still need his 'peace and quiet' until be is ready to
return to his old self. Each guy reacts differently to a molt and the jumbos
usually are far more stressed than the guys who molt more frequently...
Happy Crabbing!
Don
--- almo 2nd email tbean@a... wrote:
CLD and others,
Ethan has just informed me (I am at work) that Hercules has eaten about 1/4 inch of his exo. YEAH for Herkie!! I think he will probably be alright. He is in the 30 gallon tank by himself, as I moved all the others into the 10 gallon as soon as we discovered that he molted. I will keep y'all posted as he recovers. His legs will sure be sharp (OOUCH!). Thanks for your help.
Trena
P.S. I would still be curious how long it has taken other Jumbos to
begin eating their exos. It has taken him about 5 days to start.
Message 1085
From:
CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date:
Wed Mar 8, 2000 11:55am
Subject:
Re: about Molting/ ...a tad to add.....
Just a little more insight into the
process.... "Kritterland" uses tiny 'riverrock' substrate and most of
my guys are 'above molters'... and like Jenn's mine do love those larger shell
"molting shelters"!
The 'process' of molting does include
that 'water build-up'/'burst that exoskeleton thing' as Jenn mentioned... The
split begins around the abdomen, and those who have witnessed an actual molt in
progress can tell you how fascinating it is to watch the crab 'shimmy' out of
the old exoskeleton. I can only describe it as a person 'pulling' a turtleneck
sweater over their head...
I have read and been told that there is
a 'natural' secretion produced during this time that enables the fellas to shed
their old exoskeleton more easily... leave it to nature! Too bad that all molts
are not as successful as others allowing them to slip totally out of the old
exo EACH time... While the 'stresscoat baths' have not 'solved' all the
problems with often less successful molts of the Compressus, "E",
species, it does seem to have a positive effect on helping them get through
more molts.
The new molter will look, actually is,
smaller until the process of the hardening of the exo takes place... water and
air will cause the body to swell... forcing it to grow larger in time.
--- caormes@a... wrote:
Jenn
writes:
From
what I understand ... from reading and sharing info with others ... the crabs
put on water weight ... PMS per se! They build up water pressure in order to
crack the old exo and slide out.<<
Well,
you're right about that, so my lost-weight theory may not hold
water, so to speak. But it may all equal out and still
make slipping out of the exo easier. What a fascinating
procedure!
I've
only had a few underground molts (this may be because I use reef sand - its
really more like gravel rather than regular sand) ... <<
Actually,
I use a fine gravel for molting, have not used sand in either
tank. It packs easily when wet so it makes a fine nest--that even a
little red bird would envy. Where do you get reef sand?
I
really have to keep the substrate in all of my tanks very dry ... my state is
home to more than sixty varieties of mold ... so if anything gets too damp in
less than a day I'm growing a science project! <<
Ha! I
can understand the dilemma. I've had mold
occasionally,
but seem to be able to scrub it out of there pretty
easily. You must be in the South :).
Also
... I've noted that some of my crabs like to really pig out a few weeks before
molting ... sometimes I'll even find them sleeping in the food shell. If I see
them doing that a few times and then they're hanging out in one of my big
shells I know it's time to move them to iso!<<
Aren't
they all so different! Well, mine seem to eat a lot before
molting too, but the real sign is their digging in the
gravel. They can tear up the whole tank in one night
looking for something to burrow under. Of course, they
are so big now, that they have to be moved to an iso tank where
the gravel is much deeper and where I can provide a "roof"
to hide under.
Thanks
so much for your info and insight, Jenn.
Carol
Message 1156
From: CRABLOVER DON <kritterlandusa@xxxxx.xxx>
Date: Sun Mar 19, 2000 3:59pm
Subject: Re: have a question/ Humidity and Molts
Misty:
Placing a large natural/sea
sponge in a 'more shallow' dish should allow for more dissipation of the water
and create more humidity... this is especially true if your 'dish' is placed
over an area above a undertank heater...
As for the molting... That
is one of the calls of nature... I have crabs who molt quite often and others
of the same size that have never molted... while there are general guidelines
that 'suggest' a general time frame for a crab to molt, it is just that.. a
guideline.
Both Jenn and I have a
little "E" that seems to have a time clock running when it comes to a
molt... doing 'the deed' on a much quicker cycle as their counterparts... While
most guys of this size would be expected to molt a couple to 'several' times a
year, these fellas are popping those exo's every month to six weeks... we have
both lost count of the actual number of times the action has taken place...
These two guys have the practice down so well, that often they are down and
back up before you know it! If all of our molts could go with such ease and
success!
Patience will pay off!
Probably in the form of ALL of your guys deciding to do the molt thing all at
the same time! Seriously, as long as they seem active and lively....enjoy...
save the 'nail biting' worries of the molt when nature takes its course... In
the meantime, the weekly baths in the stresscoat treated water... a little
boost of extra calcium... (via some cuttlebone, crushed eggshell, or oyster
shell) and a good balanced diet should 'prep' them pretty well for the 'big
event' as it approaches...
Good Luck and Happy
Crabbing! CLD
--- CZMCGIRL@A... wrote:
So if anyone has any suggestions please let me know what I can do
to make the humidity go up b/c I have had my crabs for a year and
they haven't molted yet and I am really scared that maybe one reason
why they haven't is b/c of the humidity, and if they do they might
die. I am really really scared about one of them molting
after hearing how so many die during a molt. I want
to prevent that as much as possible. Thanks for all the
help. Misty