Water Depth for Newts

[caudatadude28]

Hey everyone. It seems that quite a few people on this site think newts cant handle a depth of over 8 inches. But lots of newts live in ponds that are are most definately over 8 inches deep. Notos and Taricha have been recorded in very deep water. Newts are probably not the strongest swimmers but I dont see why they couldnt handle 12-18 inches. If there are plenty of plants(artificial or live) they could hang out at mid-level depths like they do in the wild. I have seen many fairly deep setups in the Gallery and on threads so I know people do make deeper setups. Is it just to shy away the new newt keepers to deep water because in is more complicated? Small newts probably cant swim as efficiently and large newts like Taricha ssp., P. waltl(ribbed newts), and Triturus spp.(Crested Newts). But notos are recorded in deeper depths so I am not sure. Just wondering.

 

[xMIDNIGHTx]

I have always wondered about this as well. I have heard many times that tall tanks are a waste of space. Now granted, semi aquatic or terrestrial newts need much more floor space and anything over 8" high could be deemed a waste. When it comes to fully aquatic newts I have seen every square inch of the tank explored, rested on and used. I have not kept more than a couple species but all of my aquatic species have enjoyed the full height of the water. My notos for instance used to in 19" of water and seemed to love every second. I would find them on the bottom more than on top. As stated before if they are semi aquatic, weak swimmers, or just timid of the water than deeper water levels should be avoided.

Mitch

 

[caudatadude28]

So what are weak swimming species? Also I have a 35 gallon hex that is 2 feet tall. Could dobros handle 16-18inches deep of water?