Rare colouration (Lissotriton)

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Revan

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Michael
I was out for a walk with my mother and sister, looking in every puddle/ pond as you do. I was so surprised when I seen this little fella, his colouration is very rare indeed. It made him stand out (which makes me worry about his life expectancy)

If someone could identify this newt that would be a great help.

I never had any equipment left to take him home, which is a shame because I've been looking at caring for a new species.

Let me know what you think ;)
 
Sorry I had to wait for my page to be approved. 2 seconds ;)
 
i've added a few, you can also take a look here for a few more pics

Flickr: michaelblack4's Photostream

The first picture shows how easily he can be seen, spot his brother/ sister next to him.
 

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My guess is an erythristic Lissotriton helveticus. First time i ever heard of one.
Despite the conspicuous appearance, erythristic individuals of many species seem to be able to survive to adulthood in the wild (unlike other aberrants which have highly reduced fitness). This could be because of reduced predation in the area or maybe it actually create a benefit. Although mild in potency, they do produce toxins, so this guy might have benefited from looking a bit more dangerous than others. Just speculating, though.
 
Azhael said:
My guess is an erythristic Lissotriton helveticus. First time i ever heard of one.
Despite the conspicuous appearance, erythristic individuals of many species seem to be able to survive to adulthood in the wild (unlike other aberrants which have highly reduced fitness). This could be because of reduced predation in the area or maybe it actually create a benefit. Although mild in potency, they do produce toxins, so this guy might have benefited from looking a bit more dangerous than others. Just speculating, though.
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Thanks for the information, I'll visit the area again soon and hope he/she's still doing well.
 
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