Re: Survival of captive Tentacled Snake (Erpeton tentaculatum)

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Posted by Mark Robertson on November 27, 2000 at 18:47:44:

In Reply to: Survival of captive Tentacled Snake (Erpeton tentaculatum) posted by Dr. I. Zuri. Herpetologist behavioral ecologist on November 20, 2000 at 17:33:04:

I have worked with both Tentacled and Elephant Trunk Snakes over the last 20 years, and success is highly dependant upon water quality standards. To keep this short: maintain proper (and stable) water temperature (78-82F), keep the water well aerated, maintain the pH at or slightly below 6, create a "black water" system like those used for Discus (Amazonian fish), provide plenty of secure places for the animals to hide, keep strict photo-periods using a basking light on one end of the tank only, don't crowd the animals. Try to think of them as fish, not as herps. Most of the skin problems associated with these animals have to do with poor water quality. These are shy animals that often require hiding places before they will feed. One other important point; don't feed them "feeder" goldfish! They are some of the most disease infested critters on the earth, so avoid them at all costs.
I hope this all helps,
Mark R

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: I have worked with both Tentacled and Elephant Trunk Snakes over the last 20 years, and success is highly dependant upon water quality standards. To keep this short: maintain proper (and stable) water temperature (78-82F), keep the water well aerated, maintain the pH at or slightly below 6, create a "black water" system like those used for Discus (Amazonian fish), provide plenty of secure places for the animals to hide, keep strict photo-periods using a basking light on one end of the tank only, don't crowd the animals. Try to think of them as fish, not as herps. Most of the skin problems associated with these animals have to do with poor water quality. These are shy animals that often require hiding places before they will feed. One other important point; don't feed them "feeder" goldfish! They are some of the most disease infested critters on the earth, so avoid them at all costs. : I hope this all helps, : Mark R

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