Salamanders are fantastic pets because they are low-maintenance and amusing to watch. However, they have needs that require specialized attention. For example, like many reptiles, these amphibians don’t enjoy handling. Also, some of them are entirely or partially aquatic. This presents challenges for owners because they must provide enough water for these animals to submerse themselves. With this in mind, let’s look at some of the most popular and interesting aquatic salamanders that make great pets.
1. Axolotls Are a Popular Pet Salamander
Axolotls are increasingly popular exotic pets because of their cute appearance. Pop culture also boosted their appeal because they appeared in the Minecraft video game. Their wide eyes and apparent smile create an adorable aesthetic. However, there’s a darker side to axolotls. It’s illegal to own them in California because they pose a threat to native wildlife. These aquatic salamanders hail from Mexico and are larger than many other salamander species. In some cases, they even grow up to 18 inches long.
Experts recommend a 20-gallon tank for axolotls because of their size. They are fully aquatic so there’s no need to provide a land area for them. You can put a fine-grain substrate at the bottom of the tank.
Axolotls thrive in cold water, with temperatures around 57 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. An axolotl’s water parameters must also have a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. They eat a wide variety of foods from snails to fish pellets.
2. Fire-bellied Salamanders Are a Hardy Species
Fire-bellied salamanders originate from Japan and China. They have striking orange markings on their bodies that give them a vivid and captivating appearance. New amphibian owners love them because they’re a hardy species. It’s relatively easy to care for them after the initial setup.
Unlike axolotls, they are semi-aquatic. They’ll use this dry space for basking, but you don’t need to provide a UV light. Some owners may provide an extra light source during winter months to regulate their pets’ body temperature.
Fire-bellied salamanders are carnivores, and many owners feed them on a steady diet of bloodworms. However, you can also provide them with glass shrimp and earthworms amongst other critters. The amount of food will vary depending on the salamander’s age and size.
Owners shouldn’t handle them for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it will stress them because they don’t like it. Use a net to remove them from the tank when you’re cleaning it. The second reason is that they exude a mild toxin that can cause numbness or dizziness. They may not be suitable for a household with young children.
3. Tiger Salamanders Are Land-Dwelling Salamanders
Tiger salamanders are another popular salamander among both old and new pet owners. Indeed, their coloring isn’t as vivid as the previous salamanders. Some people also think they look very similar to lizards. But their perpetual wide smiles are adorable. Unlike the other salamanders we’ve discussed, they spend most of their lives on land. While not fully aquatic, they’re in this guide for a very good reason. Water is essential for their breeding practices. However, this won’t be an issue for owners who only keep a single tiger salamander.
These amphibians love burrowing so it’s important to provide the right substrate in their enclosure. Use coconut husk fiber or a good mulch so they can dig easily. You should also keep the substrate moist because this will help maintain the tank’s humidity levels. There should be a constant humidity level of 70%. Tiger salamanders need UV light so that they don’t suffer from metabolic bone disease. Even though they don’t spend as much time in the water as the previous salamanders, they do love soaking. Always provide a water bowl so they can immerse themselves.
4. Greater Sirens Appeal to Large Amphibian Lovers
Greater sirens are some of the largest amphibians in North America. They are also a fully aquatic species, so you should keep them in a large fish tank. Most salamanders exude toxins, but sirens have a unique defensive mechanism. They possess a vicious bite and will eat fish or even frogs. Their eel-like appearance fascinates some amphibian lovers. It’s fair to say that they’re not as vivid in color as other salamanders or newts. But something is captivating about their serpentine movement. They’re also exceptionally hardy and can live up to 25 years.
Maintain a constant water temperature of 70 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, constant filtration is important to maintain their health. Like many salamanders, they will attempt to escape at night to secure the tank’s lid. Earthworms can comprise the bulk of their diet, but you can also give them crayfish and crickets. Don’t give them wild critters because of the increased risk of disease.
5. Mudpuppies Are Fairly Easy to Care for
Mudpuppies are one of the most common wild salamander species in the United States. However, it’s not always legal to own them so check with your local jurisdiction first. Their murky, mottled skin coloring acts as a camouflage in their native waters. They’re an aquatic and nocturnal species but it’s very easy to care for them. The most important aspect is keeping their tank clean. Filtration will help, but you should still change their water regularly. Never use chlorine because this can seriously harm your mudpuppy.
They love eating crayfish, earthworms, and snails, so it’s simple to find food for them. Avoid handling mudpuppies because they find this stressful. However, wear latex gloves if you need to check them for medical reasons. They have a nasty bite, and it can hurt! Low lighting is key for their happiness. Don’t forget to try to recreate their natural environment. Add rocks, and plants to the tank so they can hide and explore their new home.
