Buying live Dungeness crab for the first time can be very exciting, it is only normal to want to keep them alive as long as possible before cooking, especially because it makes sure they are fresh and they taste better when cooked fresh.
There are a few items that can help to keep the crabs alive longer, and a bubble box aerator is one of those items.
However, for someone who hasn’t used one before, it would be hard to know how long it can keep them alive for.
So if you find yourself in a similar situation to this, wondering how long you can keep Dungeness crabs alive with a box aerator, then you have found the right place to get an answer to that question.
In this post, I will explain to you what to expect, and how to make sure your crabs stay in good and healthy conditions until you are ready to cook them.
How Long Can You Keep Dungeness Crab Alive With A Bubble Box Aerator
I remember getting my first batch of live Dungeness crabs, I wanted to give them the best chance of staying alive and fresh.
I decided to use a bubble box aerator, but I had a lot of questions about how long it would actually keep them alive.
I have since learned a few important things that I wish I knew back then.
If you are also trying to keep your crabs alive until you are ready to cook, here’s what I have found works best.
1. The Bubble Box Aerator’s Role
The bubble box aerator plays a big part in keeping Dungeness crabs alive longer.
It supplies extra oxygen to the water, which helps the crabs breathe better.
In my experience, you can keep Dungeness crabs alive for up to 24 to 48 hours with a bubble box.
As long as you follow a few important steps.
The aerator alone won’t do all the work, you’ll also need to keep an eye on the water conditions and temperature.
2. Cool Temperatures Are Key
One thing I learned is that temperature makes all the difference.
Crabs need cool water to stay healthy, so I always try to keep the water at around 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
A cooler temperature keeps them calmer and slows down their metabolism, which helps them live longer.
I usually keep them in a cooler with ice packs around the tank, making sure the ice isn’t in direct contact with the crabs.
3. Fresh Water Changes
Even with an aerator, the water quality can go drop pretty quickly.
I found that changing the water every few hours keeps ammonia levels down and makes a big difference in how long the crabs stay alive.
When I use seawater, I try to replace a portion of it regularly to keep it fresh.
If you are using saltwater, make sure the salt level matches the crabs’ natural environment, that’s another thing I learned the hard way.
4. Keep the Crabs Calm
It turns out, crabs don’t like to be stressed any more than we do.
I try to keep their environment dark and calm, with little amount of handling.
When I used to check on them constantly, I noticed they didn’t last as long.
Now, I just make sure the aerator is working and the water is fresh, and I leave them alone as much as possible.
Less stress means a longer life, even with a bubble box aerator.
Recommended Products That Make Keeping Dungeness Crab Alive Easier
To keep Dungeness crabs alive and healthy, I have found a few products that make the process easier.
Here are three items that have really helped extend the crabs' survival time.
I make use if them all the time, and they work beautifully.
1. Marine Metal Bubble Box Portable Air Pump
The “Marine Metal Bubble Box Portable Air Pump” is a must have for keeping crabs alive.
It’s a simple, battery powered aerator that provides the extra oxygen they need.
I like that it’s portable and easy to use, which makes the whole process less stressful, it is perfect for when I need to keep the crabs in a cooler.
2. Igloo MaxCold Cooler
The “Igloo MaxCold Cooler” is what I use to maintain the right water temperature.
It’s well insulated and keeps the water cool, which is important to keeping the crabs alive.
I also use ice packs inside the cooler to maintain the temperature, I also make sure that ice packs doesn’t make direct contact with the crabs.
3. Instant Ocean Sea Salt
If I need to mix my own saltwater, “Instant Ocean Sea Salt” is my top choice.
It’s easy to use and helps maintain the right salt water levels for the crabs.
Make sure the level is just like that of their natural habitat, getting the salt water level right is important for keeping the crabs comfortable and healthy while they are in the tank.
Conclusion
Keeping Dungeness crabs alive with a bubble box aerator is definitely possible, and with the right setup, you can increase their survival time to 24 to 48 hours.
The goal is to maintain cool temperatures, provide fresh, oxygen-rich water, and minimize stress.
A little preparation goes a long way in making sure your crabs stay healthy until you are ready to cook.
Using the right tools makes all the difference when it comes to keeping Dungeness crabs alive.
A reliable air pump, a good cooler, and proper sea salt are all very important for creating the right environment.
These products have helped me keep my crabs in great condition until the time when I’m ready to cook.
