Many people love amphibians and dream of keeping a pet frog or newt. However, the prospect of caring for them properly can be intimidating and expensive. There’s so much to think about from UVB lighting to a proper diet. Ultimately, there’s no such thing as a low-maintenance pet. However, it’s easier to care for some amphibians than others. Let’s look at some of these popular frogs, newts, and salamanders now.
1. Pacman Frogs Don’t Require Large Tanks
Pacman frogs are one of the most popular amphibian pets for new owners. Also known as Argentine horned frogs, they have a very distinctive appearance. Their large heads and stubby bodies give them a very cute aesthetic. It’s relatively easy to find them on the pet market these days. Most people think that all frogs love swimming. Pacman frogs are an exception because they prefer humid, leafy environments. Because they don’t swim, it’s easier for owners to replicate the frog’s natural environment.
A 20-gallon tank is perfect for a single Pacman frog. We don’t recommend pairing them because they may try to eat each other. The tank humidity should be between 50 and 80 percent. Keep the tank’s temperature at about 80 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. It can drop slightly at night. Feed your Pacman frog crickets and mealworms. You can gut-load them to provide extra nutrients. Caring for Pacman frogs isn’t complicated after the initial tank setup. It should be straightforward if you feed them regularly and keep their tank clean.
2. White’s Tree Frog Are Hardy and Palm-Sized
This Austronesian frog is another great option for beginner amphibian owners. White’s tree frogs are one of the most popular frog species because they don’t require excessive care nor do they grow to a large size. Experienced frog keepers recommend 20-gallon tanks.
Unlike Pacman frogs, these tree frogs are social creatures, so it’s advisable to get a pair. However, make sure they’re a similar size so there’s less risk of one consuming the other. White’s tree frogs are nocturnal animals, so UVB lighting isn’t crucial. Correct lighting is something that many new amphibian and reptile owners struggle with. White’s tree frogs may be perfect for them because they don’t have strict lighting requirements.
However, you must use a hygrometer to measure and set humidity at 60 to 70 percent. Daily misting is also important to prevent their skin from drying out and suffering infection.
3. Tiger Salamanders Don’t Require Extreme Temperatures
Tiger salamanders are one of the most common pet amphibian species in the United States. They’re quite intelligent and can even recognize their keepers. Like many pets on this list, one tiger salamander requires a standard 20-gallon tank. A good substrate is essential as well. This damp surface helps maintain the aquarium’s humidity levels. One of the best aspects of caring for these animals is that they’ll live comfortably at room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents in extreme hot or cold temperatures must take more care and monitor their salamander’s health.
These pet salamanders love burrowing and hiding, so try to create their natural environment in the tank. Stones, logs, and other items will enrich their lives. You must lightly clean their tank every day, which means removing old skin, waste, and contaminated water. Never give amphibians tap water because the chlorine can be toxic to their skin. Tiger salamanders will happily eat crickets, earthworms, and mealworms. Gut-load or dust them to give them a nutritional boost.
4. Greater Sirens Are Hardy and Undemanding
Greater sirens are the largest amphibians in the United States. These aquatic salamanders spend most of their lives in water and have an eel-like appearance. Indeed, they’re not the most vivid amphibians, but they have a mysterious aesthetic. The best part for new owners is that they’re exceptionally hardy. Yet, they need massive aquariums—sometimes pushing 100 gallons. There should be plenty of floor space for them to roam, preferably with a sandy substrate.
These carnivorous amphibians aren’t picky eaters. You can give them trout food, crickets worms, or even shrimp. They’ve been known to eat ducklings in the wild. Maintaining water quality is crucial for their long-term health. This is probably the most complicated aspect of owning a greater siren, as they can live for 25 years! Still, if you’re looking for a hardy pet, the greater siren could make an interesting display piece.
5. Fire Belly Newts Thrive in Standard Aquariums
Here’s a very common pet amphibian species: the fire belly newt. Their vivid markings make them very attractive. However, owners should take care when handling them because their skin is mildly toxic. You can house them in a standard aquarium because they only grow up to five inches long. They are an aquatic species, but there should also be a land area for basking. Use a gravel substrate and provide rocks and twigs to recreate their natural environment.
They prefer temperatures of 62-68 degrees Fahrenheit. This is slightly below room temperature, so it’s better to keep them in a darker, windowless room. It’s also something to be mindful of if you live in a warmer climate. They don’t require UV lighting. Fire belly newts love bloodworms and other critters. Keep their water clean to avoid fungal problems. It’s better to prevent health issues instead of trying to deal with them later. Otherwise, it’s not so complicated to care for them after the initial setup.
