Hibernating Paramesotriton fuzhongensis

[chris]

I was thinking that I could use a fridge and start about 15 deg. C using a timer on the fridge and slowly work down to about 3deg. C.
How long should I hibernate for? Are they active during the cold period, and if so do they need to be fed during this period? Is there a high risk of death? How much do I feed them up before hibernation?
Any other tips/suggestions are welcome,
Chris

 

[ralf]

Hi Chris,
Paramesotriton fuzhongensis is active during colder temps as well, they do not really need a hibernation. A cool aquatic period is sufficient. Carefully try feeding them, but not as much as during the warmer season. Immediately remove residues of food. Control the animals daily for any sign of discomfort. Provide a floating island for the animals to climb onto. Consider a terrestrial phase, if the animals tend to leave the water. There is a certain risk of death especially during sudden changes of temp (which shouldn't be a problem in the fridge). 3 deg. Celsius is way too cold in my opinion, although this species survived 5 deg. without a problem in my wintergarden (in an aquatic setup with lots of plants and snails, no substrate). A period of three months with temps ranging from 10 to 15 degrees should be okay for triggering breeding. No sure-fire solution though, it seems that certain animals will breed, whereas others never will (sorry

). No need for extra feeding up before cooling them down. Feed a variety of feeds twice or three times a week as usual.

Ralf

 

[chris]

Thanks,
will give it a go