Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Is anyone experienced with sandfish? I just wanted to know about their activity level and some pointers for a novice keeper of them. I have not really researched keeping them yet or anything and its just beginning to peak into my head. I have a bit of experience with desert lizards and other things so this would just further my experience. I have a 15 gallon with an undertank heater and I can use any other heating devices necessary. Any pointers are appreciated.

Do you want to see your pet on a regular basis? They are beautiful skinks, but your tank will look 'empty' most of the time, as they are generally shy and hide under their substrate. Like my sand boas...
Cheers, Jess b

LEEWAY CORUCIA RESEARCH CENTER (LCRC)

Yes Jess, and in another scenario, another person was asked "Are you one that HAS to handle their lizards? Because Uroplatus fimbriatus is a beautiful and bizarre species to view. But they should never be handled except in a dire emergency. They stress VERY easily and greatly when handled and they are considered delicate. They have been know to scream and die (Usually fresh imports) after being handled.

I know it sounds like a broken record but needs to be said again to those contemplating a purchase or feeling the impluse buy urge: Do the research and budget considerations BEFORE.

A species may be acceptable for certain aspects but not others.
Can you afford the animal, it's supplies, food, and medicines?
Do you have a climate that will be a challenge for your choice?
Will your spouse or housemember(s) tolerate the new member?
Will you find this COOL purchase old after your heavily involved with the care regimen?
ETC?
Sincerely,
Brian
LCRC

I have had 1:3 Sandfish living together for a couple of years now, and very rarely see them unless I sneak up to the tank without being seen. They are very skittish and dive under the sand at the slightest movement outside the tank. I keep them in a glass tank with about three inches of sand, no undertank heating, but a 100 watt spot bulb at one end of the tank, calibrated to give 115 degrees F at the sand surface and an ambient, day time temp of 85 degree F. for 12 hours per day. In one corner is sited a piece of plastic tubing placed vertically and in contact with the bottom of the tank. The tubing extends some 6 inches above the sand and is filled with water twice a week to give a level of damp sand across the bottom of the tank, from which the sandfish obtain moisture. Feeding is done every four days, and consists of finely chopped salad at one feeding and dogfood another with crickets and waxmoth grubs given regularly as treats.