Spanish Ribbed Newt Care Guide

Spanish Ribbed Newt (Pleurodeles waltl) is a intermediate-level freshwater amphibian that needs at least 30 gallons and 60-74°F. A large, hardy, mostly aquatic newt that is easy to feed. When threatened it can push its ribs through its skin, so handle as little as possible and keep it away from small fish and shrimp.

Care facts at a glance

Quick tips

• Keep it cool; avoid warm rooms.
• Do not keep with small fish or shrimp.
• Use a tight lid and some land or a floating perch.

San Diego water

Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. 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.