EP152: Aquatic Snakes in the Aquarium w/ Myke Clarkson

The Pond Digger Podcast

If you’re looking for something unique to add to your aquarium, how about adding an aquatic snake? Many aquatic snake species can thrive in aquariums with compatible fish species. Today’s guest is Myke Clarkson, a reptile expert who’s making efforts to make aquatic snakes become accessible display animals. Myke also works with Herpetological Conservation International to conserve reptiles.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Mike’s background and how he became interested in reptiles and aquatic snakes

• Monitoring vitamin B1 levels to prevent neurological system breakdown in snakes

• The importance of monitoring shrimp in aquatic habitats

• Challenges of keeping aquatic snakes compared to terrestrial snakes

• Ethical considerations for keeping exotic animals in captivity

• HSCs and PETA’s take on the value of exotic pet ownership

• Tank requirements of aquatic snakes

• Fishes compatible with aquatic snakes

• The distinction between venomous and poisonous snakes

• Myke’s experience of studying aquatic snakes in Indonesia

• Strategies to replicate the natural environment of snakes in an aquarium

• Keeping tanks crystal clear vs. allowing some color and imperfection from tannins

• Having a successful career in TV/entertainment while also doing scientific research

• The importance of replicating natural environments in aquariums

• Experimentation and breeding techniques for various snake species

• Myke’s goal to create country-specific biotope aquariums and ponds

• The shedding process of aquatic snakes

Mentioned:

Myke Clarkson on Facebook

Myke Clarkson (@mykeclarkson) on Instagram

Herpetological Conservation International Website

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