Amphibian · Newt
Emperor newt care guide
Tylototriton shanjing
The emperor newt is a intermediate-level newt from Yunnan, China. Adults reach 15–20 cm and live 10–20 years in captivity. Half land, half water.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 16–22°C, keep cool
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a emperor newt cost in Canada?
Emperor newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 15–20 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Yunnan, China
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 14 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 16–22°C, keep cool
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – earthworms, crickets, bloodworms
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Emperor newt enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% 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: 16–22°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a emperor newt eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, crickets, bloodworms. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Minimal handling; toxic skin.
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 emperor 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
Emperor newt FAQ
Is the emperor newt good for beginners?
The emperor newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling; toxic skin.
What size enclosure does a emperor newt need?
At least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (about 24 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 14 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a emperor newt cost in Canada?
Typically $80–150 CAD to buy, about $290–530 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a emperor newt need?
Temperature: 16–22°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a emperor newt eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, crickets, bloodworms. 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.