Triturus marmoratus - the season so far

[Mark]

It's been a busy few weeks in the marbled newt tank. Most animals took to the water about a month ago, males crested up and courtship took place. The females started laying only days after first courtship was observed. The majority of eggs appear to be duds but laying is ramping up now and some eggs look fertile. Larvae began hatching this weekend and males are already leaving the water. A number of males bear the battle scars of living with such fierce and grumpy females. One male has even been hospitalised due to the severe wounds inflicted on him. Wafting a tail at a hungry killing machine is dangerous business.

Aquatic male in breeding dress.

Terrestrial male smacking lips after dinner.

Egg laying in full swing. This female has managed to glue 3 eggs to her foot. One is even developing!

Larva on day of hatching

Same larva from above.

 

[stavroske]

Nice Mark! Mine are also in the water, females appear to lay eggs, without laying eggs. I mean they do take the leaves between there legs, but don't put eggs between it. Hopefully they start soon... They're in the water for about a month now, but still not a single egg :-/

 

[Azhael]

Gorgeous....
It always amazes me how your pictures enhance the natural beauty of your animals...they are breathtaking!!

My female C.orientalis once had an egg stuck between both legs, it was funny to see her strugling to set her hind legs free xD

Stavroske, it´s perfectly normal for them to "practice" egg laying. I´m sure they´ll start laying soon.

 

[spoons]

i really like these newts , these will definately be the next species i buy...... bigger flat first though

 

[stavroske]

Thanks for clearing that out Azhael. I have to admit that I was getting a little concerned about it... Really hope they start soon

 

[dane_zu]

Mark, of the handful of years I have been on this forum, I've always loved seeing your marbled newt pictures, keep it up!

 

[Lusiwarrior]

Hi Mark,
Congratulations! Not believing that it was unkind to anyone, I dare say that the pics that are doing the best I saw in the forum!
cheers

 

[mindfrog]

Hi there,those pictures are fantastic.
they must be one of the most beautiful newts.