Iberian ribbed newt
A species of Ribbed newts, Also known as Spanish ribbed newt, Spansk ribbenssalamander Scientific name : Pleurodeles waltl Genus : Ribbed newts
Iberian ribbed newt, A species of Ribbed newts
Also known as:
Spanish ribbed newt, Spansk ribbenssalamander
Scientific name: Pleurodeles waltl
Genus: Ribbed newts
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Iberian ribbed newt or Spanish ribbed newt (Pleurodeles waltl) is a newt endemic to the central and southern Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. It is the largest European newt species and it is also known for its sharp ribs which can puncture through its sides, and as such is also called the sharp-ribbed newt. This species should not be confused with the different species with similar common name, the Iberian (mostly Portuguese) newt (Lissotriton boscai).
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Iberian ribbed newt predominantly consumes small invertebrates as their staple diet. This includes a variety of insects, worms and molluscs. Occasionally, iberian ribbed newt also feeds on small fish and amphibian larvae.
Appearance
Iberian ribbed newt is a robust newt with a length of up to 30 cm, sporting dark grey to brown skin covered in numerous tiny white tubercles. Its body is strongly flattened with a broad head, small eyes, and a long, compressed tail. A key characteristic is the large, pointy external gills behind its head. There are no significant differences in color or size between different ages or sexes.
Behavior
Iberian ribbed newt is predominantly nocturnal and terrestrial in habits but returns to water for breeding. It exhibits paedomorphosis, retaining juvenile characteristics throughout life. Notably, when threatened, iberian ribbed newt performs the 'unken reflex', displaying its vibrant underside and secreting a toxin from glandular skin. These solitary animals show mild territoriality, particularly in captive settings.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
True salamanders Genus
Ribbed newts Species
Iberian ribbed newt 
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