Amphibian · Newt
Smooth newt care guide
Lissotriton vulgaris
The smooth newt is a intermediate-level newt from Europe and western Asia. Adults reach 7–11 cm and live 6–14 years in captivity. Seasonally aquatic: give a land area and a planted water section; keep cool.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 14–20°C, keep cool
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a smooth newt cost in Canada?
Smooth newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 7–11 cm
- Lifespan
- 6–14 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Europe and western Asia
- 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, small worms, small insects
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Smooth 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 smooth newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, small worms, 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 smooth 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
Smooth newt FAQ
Is the smooth newt good for beginners?
The smooth newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Minimal handling with cool, wet hands.
What size enclosure does a smooth 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 smooth newt cost in Canada?
Typically $30–60 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 smooth newt need?
Temperature: 14–20°C, keep cool. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a smooth newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, small worms, 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.