Spanish Ribbed Newt
Spanish ribbed newt is a species of newt occurring only in central and southern Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. It is the largest species of newt in Europe. The species is known for its sharp ribs which can puncture through the sides of the body.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Amphibia |
Order | Urodela |
Family | Salamandridae |
Genus | Pleurodeles |
Scientific Name | Pleurodeles waltl |
Other Names | Iberian ribbed newt, sharp-ribbed newt |
Size | Up to 30 cm (12 in) |
Color | Dark gray upper surface with light gray underside; rust-colored small spots near the ribs area |
Distribution | Spain, Portugal, Morocco |
Habitat | Arid habitats, temporary and permanent ponds, canals, swamps, other stagnant or slow-moving water bodies |
Diet | Insects, worms, tadpoles |
Predators | Juveniles and eggs fall prey to fishes while adults are preyed upon by foxes, grass snakes, birds like heron |
Breeding Season | Spring and fall |
Mode of Reproduction | Oviparous (egg laying) |
Clutch Size | 100 to 1000 eggs |
Incubation Period | Around 13 days in captivity |
Metamorphosis Period | 3-4.5 months |
Average Lifespan | 19.5 years in captivity |
IUCN Conservation Status | Near Threatened |
Spanish Ribbed Newt Pictures Gallery
Published on March 23rd 2017 by staff under Newts. Article was last reviewed on 30th September 2019.