Friday 1 February 2013

Introducing The Colony


This blog will be following the progress and exploits of my 6 strong Coenobita violascens colony. Picked from ones for sale at the SEAS invertebrate expo after months of preparation, there were four larges midway though colour transition in very battered shells from the Achatina genus and two tiny ones still sporting their vivid baby colours.

The largest is Rupert, a dark purple sweetheart who from day one has been very brave and friendly, with few nervous reactions and an appetite for squid. The other named thus far is ninja, the vibrant red baby in a very long shell who has already displayed an aptitude for appearing in random high places. 

One other of the larges briefly resurfaced on day three then burrowed back down. There is no death smell or frantic chirping so we are hopeful that the four unnamed burrowers will moult or destress safely and resurface soon.

The crabitat is kept stable at perfect temperatures both day and night by a silver emergency blanket on the back wall's length, and two heatmats between it and the glass. Rupert and ninja are both very active and have been eating well, bathing in their pools and quite happily exploring. The largest cocohut has been claimed by Rupert as his, little ninja has a secret sleeping place and likes to pop up when you least expect it. Updates will be added regularly so keep checking back, and enjoy!




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