Amphibian · Caecilian
Mexican caecilian care guide
Dermophis mexicanus
The mexican caecilian is a advanced-level caecilian from Southern Mexico to Panama. Adults reach 30–50 cm and live 10+ years in captivity. A burrower: very deep, moist, loose soil. Feed at the surface or near hides.
- Enclosure 45 × 30 × 75 cm
- Temp 22–27°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a mexican caecilian cost in Canada?
Mexican caecilian quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 30–50 cm
- Lifespan
- 10+ years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Southern Mexico to Panama
- Minimum enclosure
- 45 × 30 × 75 cm (18 × 12 × 30 in, ≈ 27 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 22–27°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – earthworms, small crickets, roaches
- Bioactive style
- Terrestrial amphibian
Mexican caecilian enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 75 cm (18 × 12 × 30 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a terrestrial amphibian bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Base layer – packed coco fibre8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Burrowing amphibians need soft, moist soil they can dig into – keep it damp, never waterlogged, and provide a shallow water dish. This species digs, so give it 20 cm (8 in) of substrate in total. Only the top 12 cm needs to be bioactive soil; the 8 cm underneath can be cheaper coco fibre, dampened and packed firm.
Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a mexican caecilian eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, small crickets, roaches. Feed adults 2–3 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Hands-off; mostly hidden underground.
Health watch: Skin infections from dirty or waterlogged soil.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperature (many salamanders need it cool) and keep the water dish clean.
Weekly
- Feed; remove uneaten food.
- Moisten soil if the surface dries; check the drainage layer.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check crew numbers.
Yearly
- Refresh the top of the soil.
Recommended for a mexican caecilian bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 75 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive top layer, 12 cm
Premium Coconut Fiber
Base layer, 8 cm – dampen and pack firm so burrows hold
Magnolia Leaves 10/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sheet Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Half Rounds
A dark, damp retreat
Mexican caecilian FAQ
Is the mexican caecilian good for beginners?
The mexican caecilian is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Hands-off; mostly hidden underground.
What size enclosure does a mexican caecilian need?
At least 45 × 30 × 75 cm (about 18 × 12 × 30 inches, roughly 27 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a mexican caecilian cost in Canada?
Typically $80–150 CAD to buy, about $340–620 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a mexican caecilian need?
Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a mexican caecilian eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, small crickets, roaches. Feed adults 2–3 times a week.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.