Amphibian · Salamander
Mudpuppy care guide
Necturus maculosus
The mudpuppy is a advanced-level salamander from Eastern North America incl. southern Canada. Adults reach 20–40 cm and live 15–30 years in captivity. Fully aquatic with external gills: large, cold, well-oxygenated water section. Captive-bred rare.
- Enclosure 120 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Water 10–18°C, keep cold
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a mudpuppy cost in Canada?
Mudpuppy quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 20–40 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–30 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Eastern North America incl. southern Canada
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 64 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Water 10–18°C, keep cold
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – earthworms, fish, crayfish
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Mudpuppy enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Water 10–18°C, keep cold. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Not needed.
What does a mudpuppy eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, fish, crayfish. Feed adults 2–3 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Do not handle.
Health watch: Stress and infections in warm or poorly oxygenated water.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a mudpuppy bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 45 × 45 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Mudpuppy FAQ
Is the mudpuppy good for beginners?
The mudpuppy is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Do not handle.
What size enclosure does a mudpuppy need?
At least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (about 47 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 64 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a mudpuppy cost in Canada?
Typically $50–120 CAD to buy, about $530–930 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a mudpuppy need?
Temperature: Water 10–18°C, keep cold. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a mudpuppy eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, fish, crayfish. 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.