Kweichow crocodile newt (Tylototriton kweichowensis)
Photo: Benjamin Genter / CC0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Amphibian · Newt

Kweichow crocodile newt care guide

Tylototriton kweichowensis

IntermediateCITES – buy captive-bred

The kweichow crocodile newt is a intermediate-level newt from Guizhou and Yunnan, China. Adults reach 15–20 cm and live 10–20 years in captivity. Mostly terrestrial outside breeding: land area plus a shallow water section.

  • Enclosure 60 × 45 × 30 cm
  • Temp 16–22°C, keep cool
  • Humidity 70–90%

How much does a kweichow crocodile newt cost in Canada?

Animal$80–150Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$320–590Enclosure $150–300 · equipment $70–160 · bioactive supplies ≈ $110
Yearly upkeep$100–200Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$500–940All prices CAD, estimates

Kweichow crocodile newt quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
15–20 cm
Lifespan
10–20 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Guizhou and Yunnan, China
Minimum enclosure
60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 12 in, ≈ 21 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)

Kweichow crocodile newt enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (24 × 18 × 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.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
  3. 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 kweichow crocodile 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 kweichow crocodile newt bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 45 × 30 cm).

Kweichow crocodile newt FAQ

Is the kweichow crocodile newt good for beginners?

The kweichow crocodile newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling; toxic skin.

What size enclosure does a kweichow crocodile newt need?

At least 60 × 45 × 30 cm (about 24 × 18 × 12 inches, roughly 21 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.

How much does a kweichow crocodile newt cost in Canada?

Typically $80–150 CAD to buy, about $320–590 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a kweichow crocodile newt need?

Temperature: 16–22°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%.

What does a kweichow crocodile newt eat?

Carnivore – earthworms, crickets, bloodworms. Feed adults every 2–3 days.

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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.