How do Crustaceans affect the bio-load?

[poker_nerd]

I know the rule of thumb is 1" of fish for every 5 gallons. How do crustaceans factor in? I have a FOWLER tank & I want to introduce some crabs & a small lobster (possibly) to pull clean-up duty & do some scavenger work. Lmk your thoughts.

 

[oceana]

same as anything else BUT they are nomraly considered a wash because they eat more then they put out.
PS: the lobster on the other hand will need to be fed which will add to your problem.

 

[jdl]

Originally Posted by poker_nerd
http:///forum/post/3067610
I know the rule of thumb is 1" of fish for every 5 gallons. How do crustaceans factor in? I have a FOWLER tank & I want to introduce some crabs & a small lobster (possibly) to pull clean-up duty & do some scavenger work. Lmk your thoughts.
some people hate crabs and only use snails. Your cleanup crew should be based on what task you want them to do. You may also add some crabs as part of your reef/tank instead of them being your 'clean-up' crew.

 

[stanlalee]

if you have to feed them for survival then like anything else. If they survive off the uneaten food and detritus zero. what they poop was already in the tank and the rest is used for energy and growth instead of waste in the tank. Of course thats simplified but for the most part you can exclude inverts from your bioload unless its something like a reef lobster or something that really requires feeding.