Male H. Orientalis mature?

[fire_newt]

I just recently bought 3 H.O's (I'm pretty sure it's 2 females and 1 definite male). The male's cloaca is swollen and has small hairs showing, does this mean that he's ready to "get jiggy with it"? he doesn't seem interested in chasing the for sure female down. The female seems plump, but I'm not sure if it's eating good pump or egg plump. What can I do to help these two ignite some sparks of passion? I'v heard Berry White and some mood lighting might be appropriate for these kind of situations.

 

[methodik]

Hi fire_newt,

yes, those phenomena you describe are usual for a male that is ready to mate. Try with Barry White If you have kept him a little colder for some time the chances are good they already mated - all you can do is sit and wait for the eggs, then.

 

[evut]

Either that or try doing a big water change (about 1/3) with cooler water. It seems to work on my C. pyrrhogaster. I imagine it could have similar effect on your newts. The papillae showing in the male's cloaca mean he should be ready.

 

[fire_newt]

oh boy how exciting! I'll definitely try the water change today. I'll post pictures later today of the female and get your opinions on wether she has "buns in the oven" or if she's just really enjoying the waxworms.
Thanks everyone!

 

[fire_newt]

ok so here's the pictures of the mature female in question. Let me know what you guys (and gals) think!

 

[Kaysie]

Looks like she's carrying eggs!

 

[Niels D]

I totally agree. These are females carrying eggs and yours got the same "pregnant" look.

Good luck!

 

[fire_newt]

This is so exciting! I tried the 1/3 cold water change but they didn't seem every interested, I'll keep trying and keep everyone updated. Are there any more little hints or tricks that you know of?

 

[Azhael]

Hypselotriton orientalis is easy to get into condition and they seem to vary greatly on which time of the year suits them best in captivity. No special triggers are encessary for them to breed succesfully and regularly. However, a colder period during winter is a strong stimulant and greatly increases the possibilities of succesful breeding in the spring or at any other time.
Really all you need is to give them adequate care. Good food, good housing, and they´ll eventually breed.