Super easy paludarium build for our European marbled newts (Triturus marmoratus) using our 40-gallon turtle tank and an artificial rock panel! These stunners are native to western Europe and become mostly aquatic during breeding season. After 2 months brumating in a cool terrestrial setup, it’s time to return them to the water! The males will soon rock their signature crest, and with a little luck, we’ll see some egg-laying action from the females! 🤞 #newt #marblednewt #amphibiansofinstagram #p

8.7K views · 363 reactions | What’s in a name? The emperor newt’s moniker comes from the Mandarin words "shan" (mountain) and "jing" (spirit or demon). This highly toxic amphibian lives only in the mountains along a handful of rivers in western China. During the breeding season, they live in water fields, like rice paddies, ponds or humid grasslands. | Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute | Facebook