Fire Belly Newt (Cynops orientalis) is a intermediate-level freshwater amphibian that needs at least 10 gallons and 60-72°F. A hardy, mostly aquatic newt with a bright orange belly that likes cool water. Provide a land area and a very secure lid, and wash your hands before and after handling anything in the tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Cynops orientalis |
|---|---|
| Family | Salamandridae |
| Origin | Eastern China |
| Adult size | 3.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 10 gallons |
| Temperature | 60-72°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Social behavior | Groups of 2-3 |
| Swim level | Water and land |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: frozen bloodworms, blackworms, sinking carnivore pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Keep it cool; avoid temperatures above the low 70s.
- Provide a land area or floating perch and a tight lid.
- Wash hands before and after touching the tank; its skin has mild toxins.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi