Amphibian · Newt
Alpine newt care guide
Ichthyosaura alpestris
The alpine newt is a intermediate-level newt from Central and southern Europe. Adults reach 8–12 cm and live 10–20 years in captivity. Aquatic in spring, terrestrial the rest of the year: offer both a land area and a water section.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 14–20°C, keep cool
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a alpine newt cost in Canada?
Alpine newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 8–12 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Central and southern Europe
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 14 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 14–20°C, keep cool
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Alpine newt enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: 14–20°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a alpine newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Minimal handling with cool, wet hands.
Health watch: Overheating and Bsal risk.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a alpine newt bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 30 × 30 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Alpine newt FAQ
Is the alpine newt good for beginners?
The alpine newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling with cool, wet hands.
What size enclosure does a alpine newt need?
At least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (about 24 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 14 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a alpine newt cost in Canada?
Typically $40–80 CAD to buy, about $290–530 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $80–150 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a alpine newt need?
Temperature: 14–20°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a alpine newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, small insects. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.