Setup change for my Tiger salamander?

[taythib]

Hi everyone. A few weeks ago I purchased a waterdog, and it has morphed pretty swiftly! Its gills are nothing but tiny little bumps on the side of his head. I've been keeping him in a completely aquatic setup so far, but I'm not sure if it's time for him to make the change to a more terrestrial one. If so, I plan on using a soil substrate to make a vivarium. Would it be safe to use soil out of the yard or is it advised that I go buy some from somewhere? Also, what are some recommended plants that go well in a tiger salamander set up? Thanks!

 

[Jan]

It sounds like it is time to reduce your water level and provide a land area for him to crawl out of the water. See this for description of care during metamorphosis: Caudata Culture Species Entry - Tiger salamander

It is generally not advisable to use soil from a yard unless you know for sure that the soil has not been treated with fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides or other chemicals.

Look at the above article and this article for tips on substrates: Caudata Culture Articles - Tiger Salamander 101

Myself, I avoid real plants as tigers are notorious diggers and can quickly uproot and kill plants. For aesthetics, I use silk plants.

 

[taythib]

Thanks a whole lot. I did end up dropping the water level quite a bit and he's staying out a lot more now that he has some dry land to go to. I'll give it a week or so and then change it to a fully terrestrial. thanks!