What species is this...?

[kevin]

Sorry, again, I just acquired a salamander, but i'm wondering what species it belongs to. It's the first time I've seen one like this one. Does anybody know???

Photo:

(Message edited by admin on October 21, 2002)

 

[eric]

Salut Kevin
The picture is not clear but it looks like a PLeurodeles Waltl or «Spanish ribbed newt»
It's the biggest european newts (Up to 30cm in ideal condition)
If not, maybe it's smaller relative Pleurodeles Poireti (from Algeria)
It's often hard to identify male from female with pleurodeles. Usually, the female is more robust than the male but the male has a longer tail. Otherwise the best way I have found with mine is the black nuptial pads on the front legs of the males.
It's a very aquatic salamander and it can be very agressive with other newts, be careful before mixing species.
It's very easy to breed them, the only problem I have with Pleurodeles was skin infection after being wounded.
Good luck
Eric....

 

[kevin]

Thanks Eric