Keep your shelled sidekicks healthy and thriving with the right hermit crab lighting and heating setup. You'll need a safe heat source to keep your hermit crab habitat at just the right temperature and a thermometer or thermostat so you can regulate it and adjust. You'll also need daytime lighting if your enclosure doesn't get regular sun — crabs need a natural light and dark cycle for optimal health. Here are some lighting and heating options for your crabitat:
Many hermit crab keepers recommend an under-tank heater to promote an even temperature throughout the habitat. Some supplement that with a daylight incandescent for light and a little directed heat, or just a heatless daytime light source like an LED lamp. Whatever hermit crab heating and lighting you prefer, you can find all the best types and brands at Chewy!
Hermit crabs do not necessarily need a heat lamp, but their tank does need to be kept warm. Ideal temperatures range from 75-85 degrees and vary by species. Choose a low-intensity heat lamp, an under-tank heating mat or pad, or a combination of heat sources to keep your crab friends happy and toasty.
The best way to warm up a hermit crab tank is with the even heat of an under-tank heater. You can also use an incandescent bulb that emits both heat and light, but you'll have to shut it off and switch to a lightless source of heat at night. For simplicity, many people prefer the under-tank heat pad method with no-heat lighting during the day.
Hermit crabs need natural light during the day or just a simple source of artificial light to regulate their day/night cycle. LED, incandescent, or fluorescent lighting will usually suffice. Some experts recommend UVB lighting as well, but opinions vary on whether it is truly necessary.
Hermit crabs do not need direct sunlight, but they do need a 12-hour light/dark cycle for good health. You can provide that by putting your enclosure somewhere that gets natural light, or with a simple lighting setup — put it on a timer or just turn it off in the evening. While exposure to natural sunlight can be healthy, avoid putting your hermit crab habitat in direct sunlight, as it can easily overheat.
The best place to put a heater for a hermit crab is where it will emit even, low-intensity heat. A good choice is an under-tank heating pad placed on the side of the tank or underneath your crabs' substrate. If you choose to use a heating lamp for your habitat, place it where the heat won't be too intense and use a thermometer to ensure your enclosure stays within a safe temperature range.
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