Fire-Bellied Newt Care Sheet

🔥🦎 Fire-Bellied Newt Care Sheet 

(Cynops orientalis or Hypselotriton orientalis)

Fire-bellied newts are hardy, semi-aquatic amphibians known for their striking orange-red bellies and calm temperament. They make fantastic beginner amphibians when given the proper setup and care.

✅ Quick Facts

  • Lifespan: 10–20 years with proper care

  • Size: 6–10 cm (adults)

  • Temperament: Calm, slow-moving, not typically aggressive

  • Best kept: Alone or in peaceful groups (same species only)

  • Handling: Not recommended – their skin is sensitive and mildly toxic

🏠 Habitat Setup

Tank Size:

  • Minimum: 40L for 1–2 newts

  • Add 10–15L per additional newt

  • Secure lid needed – they can climb and escape

Aquatic vs Semi-Aquatic:

  • Can be housed in fully aquatic or semi-aquatic setups

  • Semi-aquatic setup recommended:

    • 70–80% water

    • 20–30% land area (floating platforms or rocks above water)

Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 16–22°C (no heater needed in most NZ homes)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Dechlorinate water using a water conditioner like Seachem Prime

  • Weekly water changes: 20–30% using a gravel siphon

  • Use a gentle filter to keep water clean without creating strong currents

Substrate:

  • Large smooth river stones or bare bottom (easy to clean)

  • Fine gravel can be used if too large to be swallowed

  • Avoid sharp or small gravel

Décor & Enrichment:

  • Smooth rocks, logs, live or silk plants

  • Floating cork bark or turtle docks for resting

  • Hiding places (caves, decorations, driftwood)

🥩 Feeding Your Newt

Diet:

  • Carnivorous – feed a varied diet of:

    • Live or frozen bloodworms

    • Blackworms

    • Daphnia

    • Brine shrimp

    • Soft pellets (like Hikari Carnivore Pellets or Repashy)

  • Feed 3–4 times a week

  • Remove uneaten food to prevent water fouling

🧼 Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Spot clean uneaten food and waste daily

  • Partial water change (20–30%) weekly

  • Rinse filter media in tank water (not tap water) monthly

  • Clean glass with algae scraper if needed

🧠 Behaviour & Social Tips

  • Generally peaceful with each other

  • Best to keep same species only

  • Do not mix with fish, frogs, or other newts

  • Can be shy at first – become more active with consistent care

⚠️ Handling & Safety

  • Do not handle unless absolutely necessary – their skin is sensitive

  • They secrete mild toxins from their skin, so wash hands thoroughly after any contact

  • Keep away from small children or pets that may attempt to handle them

🩺 Health Signs to Watch For

Healthy Newt:

✔ Active in water
✔ Smooth, moist skin
✔ Good appetite

Warning Signs:

❗ Floating for long periods or flipping over
❗ Refusing food
❗ Damaged skin or fungus (white fuzzy patches)
❗ Lethargy or unusual swimming

📍 If you spot any of these, consult an exotics veterinarian familiar with amphibians

🧾 Essential Supplies Checklist

☑ 40L+ tank with secure lid
☑ Floating platform or land area
☑ Water conditioner (dechlorinator)
☑ Gentle filter
☑ Live/fake plants and hides
☑ Thermometer
☑ Live or frozen food
☑ Net and gravel siphon

🔥 Fun Facts!

  • Their bright belly is a warning to predators – "I’m toxic!"

  • They can regenerate limbs and tails!

  • Fire-bellied newts are most active at night but will become more visible during the day once settled

 

Fire-bellied newts are low-maintenance, long-lived, and fascinating pets when given the right care. A clean, stable habitat and a proper diet are key to keeping them healthy and happy.