southern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera)

Southern Two-Lined Salamander (Eurycea cirrigera): A Charming Amphibian for Naturalistic Terrariums

The southern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera) is a vibrant and active amphibian species native to the southeastern United States. Known for its golden-yellow body and two dark parallel lines running from its head to tail, this salamander is a staple of moist forest floors, streamsides, and mossy ravines.

If you’re seeking a visually striking and relatively low-maintenance amphibian to enhance your terrarium, the southern two-lined salamander is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a beginner, you can find the necessary enclosures, substrates, and accessories to support this species at OneStopReptileShop.com.

Physical Description and Identification

southern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera) is a slim, delicate salamander with distinctive markings that help differentiate it from similar species.

Key Characteristics:

• Color: Bright yellow, orange, or gold with two black lines on each side

• Size: 2.5 to 4.5 inches in total length

• Tail: Long and slightly laterally compressed

• Skin: Smooth and moist—adapted for cutaneous respiration

• Sexual Dimorphism: Males develop small cirri (sensory projections) near the nostrils during breeding season

Their slender form and dynamic movement make them a visually captivating species to observe in a bioactive setup.

Natural Habitat and Range

The southern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera) is widespread throughout the Southeastern U.S., including:

• Tennessee

• Mississippi

• Alabama

• Georgia

• South Carolina

• Northern Florida

They are typically found in:

• Moist hardwood forests

• Alongside cold, clear streams

• Near seeps, springs, and wet ravines

• Under rocks, bark, and leaf litter

Their habitat preferences make them ideal for naturalistic vivariums that mimic forest stream ecosystems.

Behavior and Lifestyle

These salamanders are semi-aquatic and are active primarily during the evening or after rainstorms. They exhibit the following behaviors:

• Agile swimmers and climbers

• Shy but inquisitive

• Territorial toward same-size individuals

• Hibernate in burrows or beneath debris during cold months

They are lungless salamanders, relying on their moist skin for respiration, making high humidity a necessity in captivity.

Housing and Captive Care

Caring for southern two-lined salamanders requires attention to detail but is very rewarding when done right.

Terrarium Setup:

• Tank Size: 10–20 gallons (long format preferred)

• Humidity: 75%–90% (daily misting and covered enclosure)

• Temperature: 58–72°F (no heating required if kept indoors)

• Substrate: Coco fiber, sphagnum moss, leaf litter

• Water Feature: Shallow stream or water dish with natural filtration

• Hides: Rocks, bark, driftwood, and live plants for cover

To build the ideal home, visit OneStopReptileShop.com for high-quality moss, misters, and water-safe terrarium décor.

Diet and Feeding

Southern two-lined salamanders are micro-predators that thrive on a diet of small live prey. Feed them:

• Springtails

• Flightless fruit flies

• Small crickets

• Isopods

• Aquatic invertebrates (e.g., bloodworms)

Juveniles eat daily, while adults can be fed every 2–3 days. Always ensure food items are appropriately sized for their small mouths.

Breeding and Reproduction

In nature, breeding occurs in late winter through spring. Males use their cirri to detect pheromones, and females lay eggs in moist crevices or under rocks near water. Larvae are fully aquatic for several months before metamorphosing into terrestrial juveniles.

Captive breeding is rare but possible with seasonal cycling (cooling and increasing moisture) and providing safe egg-laying sites.

Handling and Observation

These salamanders are best appreciated hands-off. Their skin is extremely sensitive to oils, soaps, and drying out. If handling is necessary:

• Use clean, damp hands

• Limit handling time to under a minute

• Always return them gently to their enclosure

They’re best suited for observational terrariums, where they can be admired without disturbance.

Why Choose a southern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera)?

• Easy to care for with proper humidity and diet

• Visually stunning with striking coloration

• Great for bioactive setups with moss and leaf litter

• Compatible with small stream or paludarium builds

• Educational—ideal for learning about lungless amphibians

Shop Salamander Supplies at OneStopReptileShop.com

Thesouthern two lined salamander (eurycea cirrigera)is a bright, beautiful species perfect for semi-aquatic and naturalistic enclosures. Whether you’re building a woodland streamscape or looking for your next amphibian project, this salamander will reward you with vibrant activity and stunning visuals. Visit OneStopReptileShop.com today to shop terrarium supplies, feeder insects, and more.