Eastern Red Spotted Newt breeding question....

[EasternNewtLove]

Is there an age when they become too old to mate? My newest male finally began developing nupital pads this morning and I want to make sure the female isn't too old. My other male hasn't developed them yet but he probably will soon. He is as old as the female is.

 

[otolith]

It depends on the individual newt. Some females will breed less frequently as they get older and some don't produce eggs every year. I would guess your newt is not too old, keep in mind these newts don't typically mature until they are around 3-5 years of age. I have a male Noto that is at least 15 years old that gets in full breeding condition every year. Do you know how old yours are? If they are 10 years or younger I'd say they are just getting started :happy: As long as they are well fed, your water conditions are optimal and you get the temperature low enough for an extended period of time you've got a good chance of getting some eggs.

 

[slowfoot]

How old are they? Mine are at least 18 (maybe 19? I can't remember) and they still breed each year. A person I trust to know about this sort of thing says they can live 40 years or longer.

 

[EasternNewtLove]

OH MY! I thought they could only live 10-15 years .-. well, two are probably about 8 since I got the two oldest about 5 years ago and they get to there final aquatic stage after 3-4 years correct? Well, they looked newly transformed.

 

[Bellabelloo]

40 years!! Looks like my children will be inheriting some Red spotted newts .