🔥🦎 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.