How to Care for an Aquatic Newt

Many people want a small pet that's easy to take care of. If you're one of these people, you might like to own an aquatic newt. These salamander-like creatures are fun and don't take up a lot of your time in the way of care.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. House an aquatic newt--or two, as newts seem to like company--in at least a 10-gallon tank. Reserve one-quarter of the tank for land and fill the rest with a few inches of dechlorinated water.

2. Keep water cool. Between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit is best. You don't need a heater because aquatic newts prefer a cooler temperature.

3. Feed your aquatic newt insects such as bloodworms or glassworms (live or frozen), small pellet food designed for newts and salamanders, which you can find at most pet supply stores, or tiny fish such as guppies every third day or so.

4. Use a turkey baster to remove any uneaten food soon after feeding. Replace 25 percent of the water every few weeks. Keep gravel clean by using a siphon with a gravel-cleaning attachment.

5. Note any physical or behavioral changes in your aquatic newt that might indicate sickness or disease. For instance, not eating can be a sign of a deadly parasite or disease. Look for fungal infections or bloating that can also strike aquatic newts.

Tips & Warnings

• Use gravel, rocks or sand for land in the newt's tank. If you use gravel, use larger pieces so the newt doesn't swallow it. Add plants and twigs for the newt to climb on.

• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling aquatic newts, as their skin produces a small amount of toxin. Leave hands damp after washing before handling the newt, but remove all soap residue.

• Don't use a tank without a lid to house your aquatic newt. Newts are excellent climbers and can escape from a tank without a secure lid.