mole salmanders (ambytoma talpoideum)

Mole Salamanders (Ambystoma talpoideum): Hardy, Fascinating Amphibians for Native Species Enthusiasts

The mole salmanders (ambytoma talpoideum) is a small, secretive amphibian with a big personality. Native to the southeastern United States, this member of the Ambystomatidae family is known for its burrowing behavior, stocky build, and adaptability. Whether you’re a native species hobbyist or a first-time amphibian keeper looking to explore something unique, the mole salamander is a hardy and manageable choice.

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Appearance and Identification

Ambystoma talpoideum is one of the smaller members of the Ambystoma genus, typically reaching lengths of 3 to 4 inches. They are robust, with a large head, short limbs, and a somewhat flattened body. The skin is smooth and moist, and their coloration ranges from dark brown to slate gray with faint bluish speckles.

Juveniles may be more brightly marked, and adults develop a chunky, “toad-like” appearance that helps them push through soil and leaf litter when burrowing.

Habitat and Natural Range

The mole salmanders (ambytoma talpoideum)r is found throughout the southeastern U.S., from Texas to Virginia, typically inhabiting lowland hardwood forests, wetlands, and pine flatwoods. These amphibians are fossorial—meaning they spend most of their lives underground—emerging during rainy nights or the breeding season.

They are often found near seasonal wetlands like vernal pools, where they migrate to breed. Outside of the breeding season, they retreat to underground burrows, rotting logs, or spaces beneath leaf litter.

Captive Care for Mole Salamanders

Mole salamanders are well-suited for life in captivity when provided with a cool, moist, and secure environment that mimics their natural habitat.

Enclosure Tips:

• Tank Size: A 10- to 20-gallon tank works well for one or two adults.

• Substrate: Use a deep layer of moist coco fiber, soil, and leaf litter for burrowing.

• Hides: Provide cork bark, moss hides, and buried tunnels.

• Humidity: Keep humidity above 70% with daily misting.

• Temperature: Best kept between 60°F and 72°F. Avoid high temperatures.

• Lighting: No UVB needed. Ambient room light or LED is sufficient.

Create a naturalistic, bioactive setup using live plants and springtails to maintain cleanliness and humidity. Visit OneStopReptileShop.com for enclosures, moss, leaf litter, and ventilation-safe tank lids designed for terrestrial amphibians.

Diet and Feeding

Mole salamanders are carnivorous and have a healthy appetite in captivity. Their diet includes:

• Earthworms (cut for smaller individuals)

• Crickets (gut-loaded)

• Waxworms (as treats)

• Isopods and springtails (in bioactive setups)

Feed adults 2–3 times per week and juveniles every other day. Use shallow feeding dishes or tong-feed to avoid substrate ingestion.

Breeding Mole Salamanders

In the wild, Ambystoma talpoideum breed in temporary pools during winter or early spring rains. Recreating these conditions in captivity is challenging but possible for experienced keepers.

Captive breeding involves:

• A simulated cooling period (50–55°F for 6–8 weeks)

• Rain chamber setup with shallow water and aquatic plants

• Mating usually begins when temperatures rise and humidity spikes

Females lay eggs in clusters attached to submerged vegetation. Larvae are fully aquatic and require separate care. Some larvae may undergo neoteny—reaching sexual maturity without metamorphosing—especially if aquatic conditions remain ideal.

Why Choose a Mole Salamander?

Mole salamanders are ideal for keepers who:

• Enjoy observing secretive, burrowing behaviors

• Appreciate North American native species

• Want a manageable terrestrial amphibian

• Prefer a low-maintenance, bioactive habitat

Their compact size, calm demeanor, and interesting life cycle make them perfect for educational terrariums, native species displays, or hobbyist collections.

Shop Mole Salamanders and Supplies Today

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