How to Feed Brine Shrimp to Salamander Larvae

Brine shrimp are offered to salamander larvae because of their small size and easy digestion.

Brine shrimp are the first meal for a salamander larvae. The larvae are 1/2 inch or smaller, depending on the breed, when they hatch. The shrimp are gut-loaded with nutrients before they are fed to the salamanders. The nutrient-rich shrimp food is available at pet stores. This procedure ensures the salamander larvae receive the proper nutrients in order to develop into healthy adults.

Things You'll Need

• Brine shrimp
• Enriched brine shrimp food
• Fine mesh net or sieve

Instructions

1. Feed the brine shrimp the nutrient-rich food. If hatching the shrimp yourself, add live phytoplankton about six hours before the shrimp hatch.

2. Place the brine shrimp into a net or sieve. Gently rinse with fresh water. This removes any salt and bacteria that is harmful to the salamander larvae.

3. Add the brine shrimp into the salamander larvae tank. Place the shrimp close to the larvae. The larvae will begin eating one day after hatching, but are relatively motionless.

Tips & Warnings

• Bare bottom tanks are easiest for salamander larvae to find their food.

References

• "Newts and Salamanders"; Frank Indiviglio; 2010

Resources

• Brine Shrimp: Hatching Brine Shrimp Cysts