Notophthalmus fungus susceptibility

[kwksand]

I've read that Notophthalmus are especially susceptible to fungal infection, and that a lifespan in captivity may be as short as 3 years. I know from reading threads here that some of you have had success keeping these newts nearly 20 years. So here is a question for the "pros". What are the three most important tricks to keeping these newts happy and healthy. I am familiar with the basic requirements (water changes, temps below 70 C), but I'm hoping to avoid disease altogether. Thanks.

 

[Otterwoman]

I've kept mine in captivity about 5 years, and I don't do anything special but water changes, I never check the chemistry, and feeding them earthworms. I have a lot of plants in there, mostly java moss at this point.

 

[Azhael]

I never heard of such a thing....but if you want to avoid diseases....CB animals are the way to go....

 

[lilsoul]

I don't anything special and I have had mine for about 8 years now and they breed all the time.