Amphibian · Newt
Sword-tailed newt care guide
Cynops ensicauda
The sword-tailed newt is a intermediate-level newt from Ryukyu Islands, Japan. Adults reach 12–16 cm and live 15–25 years in captivity. Mostly aquatic: large water section with plants and a small land area.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 16–22°C, keep cool
- Humidity 80%+
How much does a sword-tailed newt cost in Canada?
Sword-tailed newt quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 12–16 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–25 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Ryukyu Islands, Japan
- 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
- 16–22°C, keep cool
- Humidity
- 80%+
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Sword-tailed 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: 16–22°C, keep cool. Humidity: 80%+. UVB: Not needed.
What does a sword-tailed newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp. Feed adults every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Do not handle; toxic skin.
Health watch: Overheating and fungal infections.
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 sword-tailed 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
Sword-tailed newt FAQ
Is the sword-tailed newt good for beginners?
The sword-tailed newt is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Do not handle; toxic skin.
What size enclosure does a sword-tailed 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 sword-tailed newt cost in Canada?
Typically $60–120 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 sword-tailed newt need?
Temperature: 16–22°C, keep cool. Humidity: 80%+.
What does a sword-tailed newt eat?
Carnivore – bloodworms, earthworms, brine shrimp. 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.