Amphibian · Newt
Italian crested newt care guide
Triturus carnifex
The italian crested newt is a intermediate-level newt from Italy, Balkans, Austria. Adults reach 12–18 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Breeding males grow a dramatic crest; give a deep water section in spring and land the rest of the year.
- Enclosure 75 × 40 × 40 cm
- Temp 14–20°C, keep cool
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a italian crested newt cost in Canada?
Italian crested newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 12–18 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Italy, Balkans, Austria
- Minimum enclosure
- 75 × 40 × 40 cm (30 × 16 × 16 in, ≈ 32 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 14–20°C, keep cool
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – earthworms, bloodworms, crickets
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Italian crested newt enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 75 × 40 × 40 cm (30 × 16 × 16 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: 14–20°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a italian crested newt eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, bloodworms, crickets. 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 italian crested newt bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (75 × 40 × 40 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
Italian crested newt FAQ
Is the italian crested newt good for beginners?
The italian crested newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling with cool, wet hands.
What size enclosure does a italian crested newt need?
At least 75 × 40 × 40 cm (about 30 × 16 × 16 inches, roughly 32 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a italian crested newt cost in Canada?
Typically $60–120 CAD to buy, about $360–660 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $80–150 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a italian crested newt need?
Temperature: 14–20°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a italian crested newt eat?
Carnivore – earthworms, bloodworms, crickets. 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.