Every amphibian owner knows that there are some things they must get right when they care for their pets. Maintaining the appropriate humidity levels is one of the most important. It’s crucial to do this because it directly affects their behavior and even their health. This guide will examine everything you need to know about humidity levels and amphibians. New owners should familiarize themselves with this before bringing their pets home. Let’s get started!
1. Humidity Levels Are Critical to Amphibians’ Health
Exotic pet owners know that humidity levels are important for reptiles. But they’re even more essential for amphibians. This is because frogs and salamanders have very delicate skin. It doesn’t retain water as well as reptiles. Carers must manage the humidity levels in their enclosure to reduce the risk of health problems. Typically, amphibians prefer humidity levels of 50 to 80 percent. This figure will vary depending on the species. For example, White’s tree frog needs 50 to 60 percent. Leopard frogs require a higher 70 to 75 percent.
If humidity levels are too low, the amphibian can suffer from dehydration. Humidity also impacts their ability to reproduce. This is potentially lethal, so it’s important to take it seriously. There are also risks if the humidity is too high. They will become susceptible to skin infections and even diseases like pneumonia. This is very avoidable if you prepare adequately before bringing your pet home.
2. Specialized Tools Help Manage Humidity
The easiest way to monitor and set the correct humidity levels is to use the right tools and accessories. Every pet frog, newt, and salamander owner should get a hygrometer. Use this device to read the humidity levels in the enclosure. Some bigger terrariums may even require multiple hygrometers.
Just don’t put them too close to your pet’s water basin! This will give you inaccurate readings. Arboreal and aquatic amphibians require higher humidity levels than other animals. It’s best to put the hygrometer in an area where there are fewer external influences on its readings. There are analog and digital versions on the market, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Sometimes amphibian owners may also acquire humidifiers or dehumidifiers. These tools can be useful if you live in an arid climate (like Arizona) or a humid one (like Florida). Use these tools to increase or reduce the moisture levels in the air. Modern houses may even have smart home systems that can affect humidity too. However, this may be excessive if you just want to target your pet toad’s tank!
3. Proper Substrate Traps and Maintains Humidity
Another effective method to enhance humidity levels is by applying a decent substrate on the tank’s base. This will vary depending on the type of amphibian. Aquatic species like axolotls require a fine gravel or stone chip surface. This won’t influence the humidity, but they’re in a pool so it’s not an issue. A bigger, harder substrate helps to ensure that they won’t swallow it. Terrestrial and sub-aquatic amphibians can directly benefit from their substrate. Coconut fiber is one of the most popular options for tiger salamanders. You could also opt for certain mosses or even organic soil.
These substrates are very useful for maintaining humidity levels. It’s very easy to get coconut fiber from most exotic pet stores. This material can help create a reservoir beneath the surface. This slowly drains and evaporates over time. Scatter loose leaves across the surface to trap moisture. The amphibians will also enjoy hiding in the leaves.
4. There Are Simple Ways to Enhance Humidity
There are a few easy ways to cheaply influence humidity levels in your pet amphibian’s enclosure. Live plants are one of the best options. Mosses and ferns help maintain clean air as well as the tank’s humidity. They also enrich your pet amphibian’s life because they help recreate their natural environment. This is a big responsibility for ethical owners who want to care for their pets properly.
Misting is another effective and cheap way to increase humidity levels. Simply spray some water into the tank each day. You need to do this in conjunction with a decent hygrometer. For many people, this is enough, and there’s no need to get a humidifier. Use a shallow basin for water; this is another easy method to help manage your pet amphibian’s humidity levels and maintain their health.
5. Always Use Clean Water
We’ve talked a lot about ways of increasing and decreasing humidity in a pet amphibian’s tank. But many people overlook the type of water they use. This is a genuine issue because pet salamanders and frogs are so sensitive. Tap water contains chlorine and this can be toxic for amphibians. They have permeable skin and will absorb harmful chemicals.
Dechlorinate the water before introducing it to the amphibian’s terrarium. It’s also worth checking the water’s temperature. Some northern hemisphere salamanders, like hellbenders, prefer cooler water. However, many tropical frogs require warmer temperatures. Another useful appliance for aquatic amphibians is a water filter. Use a lower setting, so the current doesn’t upset them. A simple basin is enough for land-based pets, but don’t forget to change their water daily. They will excrete and shed skin that can contaminate the water.
6. Monitor Their Physical Health
Always check your pet’s physical state whenever you open their enclosure. Notice if there are any discolorations or temperament changes. Sometimes they may stop eating or become increasingly lethargic. They may also change color or display other physical abnormalities.
Take your pet to the vet as soon as you notice anything wrong with their health. You should identify a good practitioner in your neighborhood before bringing your frog or salamander home. Not every vet will have the experience to deal with exotic pets like reptiles and amphibians.
It’s always better to take preventative measures. Simple steps like checking your hygrometer’s readings can make a massive difference in the long term. You may think you’ve set it properly, but sometimes, it can go wrong. Have patience because it can be very rewarding to own a pet tiger salamander or a Pacman frog. Amphibian care can seem challenging, but it’s not so complex after the initial setup.
