Southern crested newt
A species of Crested and marbled newts Scientific name : Triturus karelinii Genus : Crested and marbled newts
Southern crested newt, A species of Crested and marbled newts
Scientific name: Triturus karelinii
Genus: Crested and marbled newts
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Wikimedia users; Achim Raschka and Yuriy75 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The southern crested newt (Triturus karelinii) is a terrestrial European newt. It is similar to the northern crested newt (Triturus cristatus) except larger and more robust.
General Info
Lifespan
12-15 years
Diet
Southern crested newt primarily feeds on a variety of invertebrates, specializing in small arthropods like spiders and beetles. Seasonal preference for snails and earthworms has been observed, aiding in nutrient absorption.
Appearance
Southern crested newt is a medium-sized newt with a slim, elongated body covered by smooth skin. Its back varies from dark brown to black, speckled with white spots. Striking, orange-red bellies complement this look and males display a high, jagged crest along their backs and tails during breeding season. Females, however, lack such crest. The species does not exhibit notable differences in appearance for subspecies or across age-groups.
Behavior
Southern crested newt are nocturnal amphibians with preference for aquatic environments. Individuals exhibit seasonal migration patterns, moving to ponds during breeding season. Unique courtship rituals involve males displaying vibrantly colored crests and performing elaborate underwater dances. While somewhat aggressive in defending their territory, their primary survival adaptation involves camouflage and mimicry.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Wikimedia users; Achim Raschka and Yuriy75 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
True salamanders Species
Southern crested newt 
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