Pleurodeles waltl feeding habits

[Andrew]

I am about to acquire some eggs so will be raising a group of these large newts. Does anyone have any experience of whether they will predate smaller species of newt or larvae of other amphibian species? I assume they will as care sheet says 'opportunistic feeder', and they have large mouths!

I wondering if I keep some in a small pond outside, whether they will wipe out the Trituris vulgaris which come to breed every year?

Any comments welcomed, Thanks.

[Rodrigo]

P.waltl predates on L.boscai in the wild, which is about the same size as a L.vulgaris. If given the chance, they will certainly predate on the local newts as soon as they fit in their mouths.
There´s also other problems to consider. By exposing them to contact with other species you risk an exchange of patogens, both to your newts and to the wild populations. Not something to be taken lightly.

I enthusiastically recommend that you raise the P.waltl separately. If you are dead set on raising them outdoors, an scape proof (and invasion proof) outdoor tank or enclosure would be very nice.

[Andrew]

Thanks for your comments Azhael,

That is pretty much what I had concluded from reading and logical thinking. I will keep them in a segregated aquatic set up and not outside. My external space is limited so will keep that clear of 'exotics' and give free range to local native species!

If / when I have more external space then I would like to keep them in a secure outside pond.

regards
Andrew