Greater sirens don’t always receive the same love as other amphibians like axolotls or fire salamanders. But they’re a fascinating species for many reasons. For starters, their distinctive serpentine appearance gives them a unique aesthetic. They’re indigenous to the southern and eastern United States so it’s easy to find them in North America. These salamanders are also one of the best amphibian pets for new owners because of their hardiness.
Let’s look at everything you need to know about greater sirens now.
1. They Have a Unique Appearance
There are many fascinating salamanders like axolotls and fire-bellies. But different people have varying tastes. They may not want a pet with an adorable appearance but something more mysterious. Greater sirens fit the bill because of their long bodies and sleek complexions. Many new owners compare them to eels or even snakes. They only have a pair of small forelegs that don’t have much function. However, they possess a powerful tail that they use to propel themselves through their watery habitat.
Some people might say that they’re not the cutest amphibians. Nonetheless, they’re one of the most interesting!
2. Greater Sirens Are an Aquatic Species
Greater sirens are a fully aquatic salamander species. Their gills allow them to breathe underwater, and they spend their lives in lakes, ditches, and pools. These sirens are also nocturnal and love burrowing into the mud or under rocks during the day. It’s crucial for new owners to be aware of this and to try to replicate their environment. They grow up to 30 inches in length, so you’ll need a large fish tank with a filtration system.
Don’t forget to add a substrate like coconut husk or sand that allows them to dig easily. Put rocks, twigs, and plants into their tank to create a pond-like environment. They prefer temperatures of 70-76 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to change their water regularly to ensure their good health.
Many owners enjoy watching their greater sirens dart around their tank. They’re agile swimmers so ensure there’s enough space for them to swim freely. Remember to secure the lid of their tank because they will try to escape!
3. Greater Sirens Eat Fish, Worms, and Shrimp
Greater sirens enjoy a variety of different foods. They’re effective predators in their wild habitats, so consider this when feeding them. Experts have recorded them hunting frogs, toads, fish, and even ducklings. It’s fine to regularly feed them earthworms, but it’s good to add some variety to their diet. They love crayfish, shrimp, and other small shellfish.
Owners can feed them two to three times per week. If you’ve any doubts, contact your vet because they can give more specific advice. Avoid giving your greater siren wild worms or other critters. This would increase the risk of them ingesting harmful bacteria.
4. These Are Very Hardy Animals
Greater sirens are famously one of the hardiest amphibian species. They may live beyond 20 years old in captivity and don’t regularly suffer from illnesses. Still, proper care is crucial to maintaining their health. Use a filter to keep their water clean and don’t forget to change it regularly. These simple steps drastically increase your greater siren’s quality of life. Consider their substrate, too. Sand is usually fine, but be careful with pebbles and large pieces of gravel; these pose a choking hazard!
Scientists discovered chytridiomycosis in some captive and wild greater sirens. This fungal disease affects over 250 amphibian species and causes severe wasting. First, they may become lethargic before their skin color changes. There’s no cure for this condition. Humans can inadvertently spread it to their amphibians if they have chytrid spores on their clothing. So, take special care when handling your greater siren!
5. They Don’t Like Handling
Salamanders generally don’t like handling, so avoid it when possible. Many subspecies exude venomous toxins that can harm humans. However, greater sirens have another unique defense mechanism that’s more threatening to owners. They possess a vicious bite! So take care if you’re checking them for medical reasons. Wear protective gloves to prevent any harm. This is very important for parents of young children to consider. For that reason, greater sirens may not be a suitable pet for these households.
6. There Are Alternatives to Greater Sirens
Greater sirens are great pet amphibians, but they may not suit everybody. Their size and appearance intrigue some people, but others may prefer a different salamander. Other options include:
Axolotls
Axolotls are possibly the most famous salamanders right now because of their pop culture fame. There’s no denying their cute smile gives the popular axolotl a wonderful aesthetic. However, greater sirens are a more ethical pet in many jurisdictions. Some places including California ban axolotls because they present an environmental threat.
Marbled Salamanders
North Carolina’s state salamander is another fascinating subspecies. If you’re looking for an alternative to aquatic amphibians like greater sirens, they may be a good option. Marbled salamanders hail from woodlands and live in dried-up pools and ditches. Their environment should be moist, but they’re poor swimmers, so don’t put them in water.
Fire Salamanders
Greater sirens have striking body shapes, but we admit their colors aren’t as vivid as other salamanders. The fire salamander may be a better option if this is your preference. Black with yellow stripes or dots, fire salamanders instantly catch the eye. They’re one of the most common salamander species in Europe, so it’s very easy to acquire them there.
