How to Care for Salamanders
  • 1. What is the ideal substrate for a terrestrial salamander enclosure?
A) Sand
B) Gravel
C) Coconut fiber or peat moss
D) Dry paper towels
  • 2. What type of water should be used for amphibian salamanders?
A) Salt water
B) Tap water straight from the faucet
C) Distilled water
D) Dechlorinated tap water or spring water
  • 3. What is the appropriate temperature range for most salamander enclosures?
A) 90-100°F (32-38°C)
B) 60-70°F (15-21°C)
C) 80-90°F (27-32°C)
D) 40-50°F (4-10°C)
  • 4. What is a common food source for adult salamanders?
A) Live insects (crickets, mealworms)
B) Dog food
C) Fish flakes
D) Fruits and vegetables
  • 5. Why is it important to avoid handling salamanders excessively?
A) They are immune to all skin damage.
B) Handling makes them grow faster.
C) They enjoy being handled.
D) Their skin is very sensitive and can absorb oils and toxins.
  • 6. What does 'amphibious' mean regarding salamanders?
A) They only live in water.
B) They can live in both water and on land.
C) They can fly.
D) They only live on land.
  • 7. What is the best way to maintain humidity in a salamander enclosure?
A) Placing a dehumidifier near the enclosure
B) Keeping the enclosure completely dry
C) Using a heat lamp
D) Regular misting with dechlorinated water
  • 8. What type of lighting is generally recommended for salamander enclosures?
A) Black lights
B) Low-level UVB lighting (for some species), or no special lighting.
C) Bright, direct sunlight
D) High-intensity heat lamps
  • 9. Why is quarantine important when introducing new salamanders?
A) To prevent the spread of diseases or parasites.
B) Quarantine isn't necessary.
C) Because salamanders like to be alone.
D) To help them adjust to the new environment more quickly.
  • 10. What is a common symptom of stress in salamanders?
A) Loss of appetite and lethargy
B) Increased activity and enthusiasm
C) Increased shedding
D) Brightening of colors
  • 11. What is the purpose of providing hides in a salamander enclosure?
A) Hides are unnecessary.
B) To make the enclosure look nicer.
C) To help the salamander grow faster.
D) To provide a safe and secure place for the salamander to retreat.
  • 12. How often should a salamander enclosure be cleaned?
A) Spot clean daily and full clean every 1-2 weeks.
B) Once a month
C) Once a year
D) Never
  • 13. What type of container is best for transporting a salamander?
A) A glass jar filled with water
B) A dry cardboard box
C) A plastic container with damp paper towels.
D) A mesh bag
  • 14. What is a common parasite that can affect salamanders?
A) Fleas
B) Roundworms
C) Ticks
D) Mosquitoes
  • 15. What should you do if you suspect your salamander is sick?
A) Release it into the wild.
B) Give it over-the-counter medication for humans.
C) Consult a veterinarian specializing in reptiles and amphibians.
D) Wait and see if it gets better on its own.
  • 16. What is metamorphosis in a salamander's life cycle?
A) Egg laying
B) Hibernation
C) Shedding skin
D) The transformation from a larval aquatic form to a terrestrial or semi-aquatic adult form.
  • 17. Why is it important to research the specific needs of your salamander species?
A) Research is unnecessary.
B) All salamanders have the same care requirements.
C) Salamanders don't need special care.
D) Different species have different temperature, humidity, and dietary requirements.
  • 18. What is a sign of dehydration in a salamander?
A) Wrinkled skin
B) Shiny skin
C) Increased activity
D) Increased appetite
  • 19. How do salamanders breathe?
A) Only through their lungs.
B) Only through their gills.
C) Only through their nose.
D) Through their skin, gills (in larvae and some adults), and lungs (in some adults).
  • 20. Why is it important to provide a water dish, even for terrestrial salamanders?
A) To maintain hydration and humidity.
B) They do not need water dishes.
C) To provide entertainment.
D) To keep the enclosure cold
  • 21. What should you avoid using when cleaning a salamander enclosure?
A) Vinegar
B) Pet safe enclosure cleaner
C) Bleach
D) Harsh chemicals and strong detergents
  • 22. What is a good enrichment activity for a salamander?
A) Playing loud music
B) Adding new hiding spots or rearranging the enclosure.
C) Bathing them frequently
D) Placing a mirror in the enclosure
  • 23. What should you do with uneaten food in the enclosure?
A) Leave it for them to eat later.
B) Bury it in the substrate.
C) It is good to leave it.
D) Remove it promptly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
  • 24. Where is the best place to acquire a salamander?
A) From a reputable breeder or rescue organization.
B) They are not sold.
C) From the wild.
D) From an illegal seller.
  • 25. What is a common cause of skin infections in salamanders?
A) Poor water quality or unsanitary enclosure conditions.
B) Exposure to sunlight.
C) Eating too much.
D) Over handling.
  • 26. What does it mean if a salamander is 'nocturnal'?
A) They are most active during the day.
B) They never move.
C) They are most active at night.
D) They are active only in the spring.
  • 27. What safety precautions should you take when handling a salamander?
A) Wash your hands never.
B) Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling.
C) Wear insect repellent.
D) Wear gloves and a mask.
  • 28. What does ectothermic mean?
A) Is always hot.
B) Relies on external sources for body temperature regulation.
C) Is always cold.
D) Regulates its own body temperature.
  • 29. What should you do before introducing a new salamander to an existing habitat?
A) Introduce them immediately.
B) Exchange substrate between their containers.
C) House them together in a small container first.
D) Quarantine the new salamander for several weeks.
  • 30. What is the best method to feed larval salamanders?
A) Pelleted food for reptiles
B) Powdered sugar
C) Small live foods such as daphnia or brine shrimp
D) Large crickets
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