Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hello, my local petstore recently got in some Fire Bellied Newts and they keep them in a fully aquatic cage. I was wondering if i could get one and keep it with the following fish: 1 Clown Loach, 1 Betta, 1 Zebra Loach, 1 Kuhli Loach, 1 Chinese Algea Eater (leaving soon!), 2 Black Skirt Tetra, 2 Red Eyed Tetra, 2 Golden Gourami, 1 Blue Gourami, 1 Albino Corydoras Catfish, 1 Iridescent Shark, 3 Guppies and 1 MALE Marigold Swordtail.

I really would like to keep a newt with my fish but if they wont get along, i will just have to DEAL WITH IT...

The biggest problem is TEMPERATURE. Newts like it cool, or cold (under 70F if possible). The temperature of your fish tank will NOT be decent for them. Read FAQs (and the article on "species mixing disasters" at
www.caudata.org/caudatecentral/

crap...

my fish tank's temp is usually about 74-76 degrees. fairly cool. but not cool enough i dont think......is it?

They may survive, but they won't be happy with the temperature or these fish. Why not set up a 10 gallon tank just for them? Won't cost much, just a tank and a few plants. Put it where it receives some natural light (not direct sunlight) and stays cool. You don't need a heater, filter, light, etc.
-----
Mike.
--
http://mike-edwardes.members.beeb.net/Amphibiary

Also, another problem is that the newts will nip at the fish's fins. I would suggest putting them in with some cool-water fish like goldfish, but golds are very messy fish and produce tons of ammonia and wastes, which would be bad for the newts. I would just set up a low-cost ten gallon tank for two newts, and enjoy them like that, since they are such cool pets
-----
*~Ginevive~*

well, one thing you dont consider is...ROOM AND COST!

i ouwn 5 lizards, 2 cats , a 29 gallon fish tank, 1 tree frog and a dog.

i have no room for yet another set up. plus when i am searching for a 55 gallon tank (cheap)for my Bearded Dragon and a 20 gallon - 30 gallon tall tank for my frog.

well, there goes my newt idea...

I'm a bit surprised why no one has mentioned this: Shouldn't the newts (at least fired belly) be in a semi-aquatic tank? I know they are just fine swimmers and can get on plants and such but I have never recommended that newts be in an all aquatic tank. I have never heard anyone recommend such houseing either. I was under the impression that most newts reqired at least a little land. Am I incorrect?