Question: What would be a good substrate for blue spotted salamanders?

[FloridaManLovesNewts]

Would topsoil or coconut fiber be better? What’s the difference between the two? if there is one.

 

[Herpin Man]

I would suggest a mix of the two. Perhaps 60% soil, 40% coconut fiber. Add a layer of leaf litter, some plants, a water dish, and some bark to hide under.

 

[FloridaManLovesNewts]

I would suggest a mix of the two. Perhaps 60% soil, 40% coconut fiber. Add a layer of leaf litter, some plants, a water dish, and some bark to hide under.

I appreciate the answer, unfortunately the blue spotted salamanders I planned on buying were sold. Also do you recommend collecting bark yourself and if so how would you sanitize it (if at all)

 

[Herpin Man]

Sometimes I collect bark, sometimes I use cork bark. I just rinse it off in hot water. Some people bake it in the oven.