Tips on Housing Tiger Salamanders

Tiger salamanders are large salamander species that get their name from their yellow and black striped coloration. There are a number of different species of tiger salamander, including the Eastern tiger salamander, the barred tiger salamander and the Sonoran tiger salamander. All species of tiger salamanders can be housed in a similar manner.

  1. Cage Size

    • A 15-gallon aquarium is suitable for one adult tiger salamander. Younger tiger salamanders should be kept in smaller aquariums; if the space is too large, they may not feel safe and will become stressed. Small plastic bug keepers can also be used for younger or baby tiger salamanders.

    Substrate

    • Tiger salamanders spend the majority of their time hiding underground, earning them the nickname "mole salamanders." The substrate, or the material at the bottom of the enclosure, should allow for the salamander to bury itself easily but stay moist at the same time. Some good substrates that achieve this include potting soil, coconut husk, leaf litter and top soil.

    Groups

    • Tiger salamanders should only be housed alone. If housed together, they can become stressed, compete for food or fight to the death. It is also easier for contagious illnesses to spread through your collection if the salamanders are constantly in contact with each other.

    Hides

    • Many species of reptiles need objects to hide under and behind. This helps them feel secure and keeps them from becoming stressed. Tiger salamanders will also need objects to hide behind and hide under, such as cork bark pieces, logs, fake plants and rocks. If the salamander is in a glass tank, covering the back and sides of the tank with Bristol board or a decorative background can also keep the salamander feeling secure.