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Physical Characteristics
The fire-bellied newt, also known as the Japanese common newt, has black or brown skin with an orange or red spotted belly. Full grown, the fire-bellied newt will reach a length of 3½ to 6 inches. They have paratoid, or poison, glands located behind each eye.
Habitat
These amphibians live in bodies of still, clear water throughout Japan.
Diet
They will eat a variety of small invertebrates and the occasional fish.
Reproduction
Fire-bellied newts are born from eggs, which are attached individually underwater to various aquatic plants. As juveniles, they will spend their first few months underwater as larvae breathing with external gills. As they go through metamorphosis, they will lose their gills and live as terrestrial animals for up to three years before returning back to the water. During breeding season, males will develop smoother skin and a thin sail along the top of their tail and bluish-purple patches along the sides.
Did you know?
The bright colors on their belly are used to thwart predators – when in danger, the fire-bellied newt will expose its belly to predators, who are startled by the bright coloration, which gives the newt a chance to escape.
Status
The fire-bellied newt is considered non-threatened.
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