Italian crested newt
A species of Crested and marbled newts Scientific name : Triturus carnifex Genus : Crested and marbled newts
Italian crested newt, A species of Crested and marbled newts
Scientific name: Triturus carnifex
Genus: Crested and marbled newts
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Italian crested newt (Triturus carnifex) is a species of newt in the family Salamandridae.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Italian crested newt largely feed on arthropods, emphasizing crustaceans and insects. They also consume mollusks, small fishes, tadpoles, and sometimes even other smaller newts, showcasing their opportunistic and carnivorous dietary tendencies.
Appearance
Italian crested newt is a species of newt with a robust body shape, possessing smooth skin. Adult males, larger than females, can reach 15-20 cm in length and feature a prominent wavy dorsal crest during the breeding season. Their skin exhibits a variation of marbled patterns of greenish-black, grey, and yellow tones. The belly is vibrant orange, speckled with black. Juveniles resemble adults but are smaller and lack the distinctive crest.
Behavior
Italian crested newt is typically a solitary, nocturnal species. Its diet consists mostly of insects, which it catches using its quick reflexes. Mating season sees this species converge in ponds, with distinctive courtship rituals. Males use pheromones to attract females and engage in impressive tail-fluttering displays. Shy individuals, they flee at signs of danger, displaying their vibrant underbellies for distraction.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
True salamanders Species
Italian crested newt 
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