Inverts and calcium

[Mashpotatoes74402]

Do I need to supplement calcium to help them grow? I see pictures of these huge crayfish and snails.

[JennMc]

I don't know anything about crayfish but you do with snails, from what I've read. I give my black mystery snail kale for that purpose, and he is growing steadily bigger!

[Mashpotatoes74402]

What is kale?

[JennMc]

Originally Posted by Mashpotatoes74402

What is kale?

Kale is a vegetable. Leafy green. You will find it in most grocery stores. To feed it to snails, blanch it in boiling water for 3 minutes. or you can stick it in some water in a bowl, and put it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. blanching is just to soften it so the snail can eat it.

Kale is delicious for humans too!

[Terrance]

In my opinion, its very beneficial to add some calcium rich food since shrimps and crayfish molt a lot. I am not sure how much calcium is lost during molts and how much is taken back if any parts of exoskeleton is eaten, but its a nice reassurance.

[Mogurako]

Originally Posted by Terrance

In my opinion, its very beneficial to add some calcium rich food since shrimps and crayfish molt a lot. I am not sure how much calcium is lost during molts and how much is taken back if any parts of exoskeleton is eaten, but its a nice reassurance.

I agree, adding cuddle bone to the tank also helps allot.

[ianeberle]

You can buy these things on eBay called mineral rocks. Find the ones sold by the seller Aquatic Magic... These are great for calcium.

[jcolon]

Just add limestone and or Marble to the tank and or filter. The main mineral in those rocks are calcite.

[Mogurako]

Cuddle bone is 2 for a dollar adds calicum and other minerals. It's also very easy to find at any petstore. Easiest way to go.

[jcolon]

Originally Posted by Mashpotatoes74402

Do I need to supplement calcium to help them grow? I see pictures of these huge crayfish and snails.

BTW.. Do you get calcium buildup on your plumbing fixtures? If so then your tap has already got dissolved calcium.