Walking decapod

Specific needs

• A tank suited to the species, with good-quality, well-oxygenated water
• Plenty of hiding places (essential during moults)
• The species are often solitary or territorial

Feeding

• An omnivore diet: sinking foods, plant matter and sources of calcium
• Feed sparingly to protect the water quality
• Calcium helps to build the shell

Habitat & environment

• Filtered water, with regular partial water changes
• A temperature suited to the species (often cool)
• A proper lid (some species escape)

Prevention

• Regular water testing
• Avoid copper, which is toxic to invertebrates
• Quarantine, and choosing compatible species

Vaccination

No vaccination: prevention rests on water quality and a suitable environment.

When to see a vet?

• If animals are dying or there are recurring moulting problems
• To make sense of abnormal water parameters