My sister and I were in the school's nature reserve (we're in central Arkansas) today checking on some studies. We came across a decent sized mud puddle (for lack of a better description) which was teeming with tadpoles, crayfish/crawdads/small shrimp, and... SALAMANDER LARVAE! I was told I could take some and see what becomes of it. I ended up with a salamander larvae a little bit over an inch long. It has arms, legs, and magnificent gills.
I would greatly appreciate any insight as to what can be done to help it thrive. I put it in a one gallon critter keeper for now with a 2 other small tadpoles using the same water I found them in. I made the water lever about the same as it was in the puddle - a little over 2 inches.
Do I need to remove the tadpoles or are they food? I saw tons of delicious looking wiggly bugs and such in the water, so I can he can eat that.
They're at room temp, around the upper 70's. Do I need to upgrade him to a bigger tank and get him a heater?
Do I need to get blackworms (although they are not native here) or some sort of enticing food for it?
I do have several other species of newts, but I have never had the opportunity to raise them from such a young stage.
I'm working on getting some pics up so I can pester the forum again for identification.
Once again, I really appreciate any advice. Thanks so much!