bad molts

CerenaDaft

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Oct 17, 2011
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recently i have been getting bad molts with my cherry shrimp. just now, i helped one of my shrimp from their molt. his legs were stuck and i used tweezers and my fingers to get it off his legs. he is doing well and is hiding in some plants. i am going to the store to get some iodine for my tank.
any input on this is helpful and do you think i was wrong to help the little shrimp?
 
What is your PH? Sounds like the new shells aren't hardening properly under the old one, thus not allowing them to fully free themselves during the molt.

Silly question on my part... What does Iodine do? Help them harden shells?
 
I've never had problems with cherry shrimps molting. However, I've seen this problem with my other shrimps. There's a product out there call mosura gravida that is suppose to help with molting problem.
 
Iodine has never been scientifically proven to ease, or improve molting of shrimp, crayfish, or any crustacean. All evidence is anecdotal, and experiments done were not carried out in anything approaching laboratory conditions.

Molting can be a mechanism used by shrimp to rid themselves of toxins. Before adding anything to your tank, make sure that you have a comprehensive test kit, that includes testing strips for metals. There are factors that can contribute to molting issues, besides toxins. They all stem from stress. The source of stress can be illness, old age, or lack of comfort (inadequate hiding places, predatory tank mates, or poor water conditions).

If your problem continues, do not make multiple changes rapidly. Quick fluctuations of environs can introduce more problems. Also, if you solve the problem you may not know exactly what did it. Make one change and give it time to do something.

It is also a good idea to keep a log, or journal for each aquarium you have. Keep records of all changes made. The level of detail is up to you, but consider tracking, temp, type of illumination (sun or lamp)duration and wattage, water changes, gravel vacuuming, feeding schedule (and type of food), flora and fauna additions, and deaths.

It's takes some dedication to start, but after a few months, it becomes habitual, and interesting (at lest I find it so). :)
 
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