To add the newts or not?

[Elliriyanna]

I have a snail and shrimp tank running currently and the planting in it went better than expected. I am thinking it would be a wonderful environment for the newts. Its only a 10 gallon as I can not upgrade for a while. Below is the tank, Any thoughts?

Yes it currently has a heater but the tank still stays around 65

My newts are Orientalis.

 

[JoshBA]

I would remove the heater and then add your newts.

 

[Elliriyanna]

It was more about if the newts should be added at all I know the heater can't be in there with them. Plus I worry about the cold temps with the shrimp and snails

 

[JoshBA]

If the tank is sufficiently cycled and has good water parameters it would be perfectly fine. I'm not sure about the snails, but I know ghost shrimp and neocardina species can handle lower temperatures. How low would the temperature get without the heater?

 

[Elliriyanna]

Its currently at 60 but I worry more about the temperature fluctuation, I know snails can do fine. I just want the best for all the species, The filter is cycled and has been moved to the most established tank I have.

 

[AeonMapa]

The newts would love it in there! Packed full of plants just how they like it, and with lots of snails and shrimp to snack on to boot! My shrimp and snails have no problem with newt required temperatures so I don't think you'll have any problems

 

[AeonMapa]

Also, I might I suggest trimming some of your plants? You can then plant the trimmings and double your plant stock! Also trimmed plants will grow faster and thicker as well

 

[Kaysie]

If you're concerned about the best for all species, you should consider not mixing species with different temperature requirements.

 

[Elliriyanna]

The shrimp and snails can live happily in a variety of temps so thats not a valid argument. I asked on here about shrimp before and was told they were fine.

I moved everything over to my 20 gallon so its not as heavily planted but its more room for everyone

I am thinking once I get everyone breeding I will move over the newts and let them have at it.

Unfortunately the plants are not ready to be trimmed, I just got the packages last week.


Today I am pulling out the step stool and planting the 20 long, I just threw everything in there last night.

 

[AeonMapa]

Hey if you're re doing your tank I really suggest researching the walstad method if you haven't yet. It's simply the best for a low maintenance tank and will result in superb plant growth, and less water changes and absolutely no need to clean the substrate!

 

[Elliriyanna]

I looked into it and I remember thinking it wouldnt be bad down the road ... But not now.

I won't be putting the newts in the tank but I do have to find a better way to feed the babies.

 

[Bellabelloo]

What are you feeding the newts now?

 

[Elliriyanna]

Bloodworms ... When I have time to thaw them ... Luckily they have pond snails in their tank but I don't even know if they are eating those.