Paddle-Tail Newt

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Paddle-Tail Newt

Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Amphibia
Order:	Caudata
Family:	Salamandridae
Genus:	Pachytriton
Species:	P. labiatus

Binomial name

Pachytriton labiatus

The Paddletail Newt is a species of newt, sometimes sold as a household pet. They are primarily found in China, and are characterized by a flat body and a long, paddle-like tail. They range from black to brown to pale brown. They have orange markings along the bottom of their body and may have some orange dots lining its back.

In China, Paddletails live in cool, oligotrophic (high oxygen, low nutrient)rivers and brooks sheltered by forests. Food is scarce, so Paddletail Newts developed an aggression towards others of its own kind. Not only do males show aggression towards other males, but females also bully other females or males. Males particularly like to pick on thin females. There are no record of Paddletail Newts breeding in captivity yet.

Since food is scarce for them in their cold river homes, they can go for weeks without food. Paddltails feed on insect larvae, small fish, crustaceans, and anything else smaller than they are. They use their sense of sight and smell to locate their food. In captivity, they can eat commercial amphibian and reptile food such as Reptomin and frozen bloodworms.

Paddletail longevity is currently unknown, but in captivity it usually ranges from 10-20 years. Paddletail newts have a unique trait to them. They are known for their chemical communication. They fan their tails when they are trying to attract the attention of another newt, when they are startled or frightened, or when approached by another Paddletail. Paddletail Newts are sometimes confused with the Japanese Firebelly Newts and sold as such.