Iberian ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl)
Amphibians · Difficulty: Beginner
Key facts and care guidance for Iberian ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl) (origin: The Iberian Peninsula, Morocco). Adult size around 20–30 cm (the largest European tailed amphibian). Life expectancy 10–20 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Iberian ribbed newt: How big does the enclosure need to be?
80×40×40 cm aquarium.
Iberian ribbed newt: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 16–22 °C (not above 24 °C), basking spot No basking spot, at night 12–16 °C.
Iberian ribbed newt: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Not essential.
Iberian ribbed newt: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: 10–20 years.
Iberian ribbed newt: Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes – it is considered suitable for beginners (difficulty: Beginner).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 16–22 °C (not above 24 °C)
- Night temperature
- 12–16 °C
- Basking spot
- No basking spot
- Humidity
- Aquatic
- UVB
- Not essential
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- 80×40×40 cm aquarium
- Substrate
- Water 20–30 cm deep, sand, roots, a small land section
Feeding
- Food
- Earthworms, aquatic insects, fish
- Feeding interval
- adults 2–3×/week
Key facts
- Adult size
- 20–30 cm (the largest European tailed amphibian)
- Life expectancy
- 10–20 years
- Origin
- The Iberian Peninsula, Morocco
- Protection status
- Protected in Spain – captive-bred animals only
- Brumation
- A cooler spell in winter
- Cohabitation
- A group works well: the species is regarded as social and can be kept with conspecifics of similar size if space and food suffice. As a rule of thumb each additional animal needs about 20 litres extra, with many hides. Drawbacks: where sizes differ, smaller animals may be attacked or limbs injured, and food rivalry is possible. Single housing is also unproblematic.
Notes
Almost entirely aquatic, very robust and long-lived. When threatened it pushes its ribs through the skin. Warmth above 24 °C is tolerated poorly.
Do you keep this species?
Add your animal to Reptoria – Reptoria reminds you about feeding and shedding. Add your animal for free →
Look for Iberian ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl) in the marketplace →
Related species
- Italian crested newt (Triturus carnifex) – Intermediate
- Alpine salamander (Salamandra atra) – Expert
- Anderson's crocodile newt (Echinotriton andersoni) – Expert
- Anderson's salamander (Ambystoma andersoni) – Intermediate
- Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) – Beginner to intermediate
- Alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris) – Beginner
- Blue-tailed fire-bellied newt (Cynops cyanurus) – Beginner
- Chinese fire-bellied newt (Cynops orientalis) – Beginner
What you need to start
To keep Iberian ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (80×40×40 cm aquarium), substrate (Water 20–30 cm deep, sand, roots, a small land section), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 7 November 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurodeles_waltl, https://thetyedyediguana.com/care-sheets/spanish-ribbed-newt-pleurodeles-waltl, https://vetverified.com/articles/keeping-the-spanish-ribbed-newt
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).