Emperor Newt

📋 At a glance

Tank

Semi-aquatic, terrestrial-leaning 10–20 gal: moist land + shallow water

Temp

Cool 60–72°F

Setup

Moist terrestrial substrate + a shallow water area

Food

Earthworms, crickets, bloodworms

Lifespan

10–20 years

✅ Hardy and striking, and increasingly captive-bred — a rewarding terrestrial-leaning newt.

🛒 Before you buy

• A mostly-terrestrial, moist setup with hides + a shallow water area
• A cool spot (60–72°F)
• CAPTIVE-BRED where possible (wild populations are declining)
• The knowledge it has toxic skin secretions (wash hands)

A healthy one: Rough orange-and-black skin, bony head ridges · well-fleshed · clear skin · active on land.