Question: How cold is too cold?

[Fizzle]

Hello there,

I currently have a newt tank setup below my window for natural lighting. I know that newts prefer a colder enviroment, but is it possible to get too cold for them? I live in northern California so we have mild winters. I'm working on getting a temperature gauge soon as I don't have one yet. I've read on sites that hot temperatures should be advoided, but there wasn't much on colder temps. I'd appreaciate any information offered on this subject.

Thanks!

 

[Mark]

It depends what newts you have. Many species will naturally tolerate temperatures down to near freezing. Species from sub-tropical Asia, for example, may not be accustomed to temperatures much below 10C (50F). Most temperate species however have to endure cold winters, taking refuge from extended sub-freezing periods.

 

[Fizzle]

Well I have a firebelly newt....

 

[Greatwtehunter]

I doubt you'll have to worry about it getting too cold. My group of orientalis regularly get down into the upper 30's, low 40's during the winter time.

 

[Fizzle]

Hello Again,

So I got an outside temperature gauge that sticks on the outside of the tank. Its reading 76F....is that too warm? I'm not sure if the reading is right, as it feels pretty darn cold to my touch. However, now I'm concerned that its not cold enough. I just want my tank mates to be happy. I am very new at all this though. I will look through the caudata culture articles again.

Thanks so much for feedback.