New mudpuppies

[LeslieK]

Well the mudpuppies that my faculty member won showed up today, surprisingly large (one is probably 10" and the other 8") but alive. I have a sand bottom tank with some rock shelter areas and feeder fish ready to go in the tank but I really need some reassurance that I'm on the right path.

The tank feels cold to me, i didn't add a heater (read someplace here that it was not necessary) and its 68 degrees. I have an immersible water filter set up so that it doesn't cause much water movement. I have some minnows for food.

So, you're the experts, how am i doing? What should i watch for? How can i make them more comfortable?

thanks in advance, LeslieK

 

[Neotenic_Jaymes]

Seems like your on the right path! Its important to have big enough rock shelters and plenty of them or they will constantly fight over the best hides. Just keep in mind that they are semi-territorial. I keep 2-3 adults in a 55 gallon tank. I keep mine from 40-60 degrees, they're a cold water species. You wouldn't be able to find Mudpuppies in the shallows in their natural habitats when the water temps are 60 and above. They can be found in still lakes or in fast running water. Water current isn't a must but it does help with oxygen levels.

I'd avoid feeding them feeder fish. Especially if your getting feeder fish from pet stores or minnows from bait shops. Usually feeder fish are sick or have parasites almost half the time they show up at a pet store. I used to work a pet store and I'll never use feeder fish again. Its the same deal with minnows. Its better to use earth worms,frozen krill, liver, or things of that matter. Good luck! Post pics!

 

[LeslieK]

thanks, I bought some flat rocks and used those as cover. Right now they are getting along well, hiding under the rock.

Thanks for the food suggestions, I'll see what else I can find.

 

[Kaysie]

Be wary of your filter. Submersible filters often raise water temperature, and if yours is at 68, you're already flirting with it being too warm.

 

[LeslieK]

thanks, any suggestions?

 

[Kaysie]

Canister filters are great. You can put the intake at one end and the output at the other, and this will also create a little current in the tank, with which mudpuppies are comfortable.

 

[LeslieK]

thanks again. They ate worms for me. I feel better now that at least I know what they eat. I appreciate your help.