MOLD in a Hermit Crab tank!?

There’s some debate about mold in hermit crab enclosures. Certain sources suggest that mold growing from safe items, like food, isn’t harmful and may be tolerated. However, other sources caution that no mold is safe and should be removed immediately to avoid potential risks. Mold can commonly appear on food left in the tank, unsealed wood that touches the substrate, and porous materials like terracotta or jute. While opinions vary, it’s generally recommended to monitor and address mold quickly to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your hermit crabs.

If you notice mold in your hermit crab tank, start by scrubbing the affected items with really hot water to kill off mold spores. After scrubbing, soak the items in saltwater. The saltwater not only helps disinfect but also creates an environment that makes it harder for mold to grow in the future. Once you’ve soaked everything, let it dry completely before placing it back in the habitat.

Seagrass mats are typically made for desert animals and don’t do well in the humid environment that hermit crabs need. Even with proper care, they’re likely to mold. Jute or sisal mats are much better options—they hold up to the humidity and give your crabs something safe to climb on without the risk of mold.