Substrate in semi aquatic aquarium for kaiseri, t. Marmoratus, and c. e. popei?

[Sawyer]

I currently have my kaiseri in a fully aquatic aquarium. I am in the process of modifying a much much larger aquarium that I intend to be 50/50 for the 3 newts listed(seperately, of course). Can anyone who has personally experienced this type of set up for any of the 3 give me some pointers for basic substrate uses in this type of setting along with what type of above water plants can be compatible with temps ranging from 72-76 on average? Is there one type of substrate that is compatible for one be harmful for the other? Better yet, us there 1 basic substrate and series of plants I can use in all three set ups?

I've completely numerous hours of research and have a solid idea of what I can and can't use, but it is always nice hearing from people with personal experience.

Thanks guys( and gals)!

 

[Jennewt]

Are you planning a big tank with dividers or something? How large?

 

[Sawyer]

55 gallon long tank. I've looked through the set ups on the site and read quite a few threads on the amount of space each newts species are given.

With that being said if I divide it into 3 set ups then that is a hair over 18 gallons for each which should be plenty suitable for a limited number of adults from the species I have listed above.