How to Keep a Salamander's Tank Clean

Salamanders require a fair amount of commitment in terms of care. Once you have a created a suitable habitat with the right humidity and temperature, you have to maintain it. In a space as confined as a tank, waste builds up quickly. Almost all amphibians need either an aquatic or damp habitat, which are also the habitats that encourage mold, unwanted bacteria and algae. While there are some basic tenets for ensuring your salamander's tank is sanitary, you'll want to research the specific needs of the exact species of salamander you own.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic gloves without coating
  • Plastic tub
  • Spare salamander tank
  • Amphibian-safe disinfectant
  • Cleaning cloths
  • Paper towels
  • Substrate, moss and bark
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on plastic gloves and guide your salamander into a plastic tub. Place the tub in the spare tank while you clean the main one.

    • 2

      Dispose of the substrate and any moss or bark. Organic materials from a salamander tank are safe to compost.

    • 3

      Spray the tank, accessories and bowls with an amphibian-safe disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly and dry with paper towels.

    • 4

      Add fresh substrate, new moss and bark, and fill the water bowl with dechlorinated water.