Iberian Ribbed Newt, or the Spanish/Sharp Ribbed Newt (Pleurodeles Waltl), primarily resides in the Iberian Peninsula (in Southwest Europe ) and Morocco
Their common names refer to the ability to rotate their ribs within their own bodies and drive them out, creating a series of petrusions that, when combined with the naturally toxic secretions of the newt, establish a very effective (and often lethal) defense against predators. Although it was previously believed the newt had specific spores to aid this process, it has been established that the newt actually pushes the ribs through its flesh when it engages this mechanism in times of distress. However, the newt has a natural immunity to the toxic it creates (as this process would almost certainly prove fatal to the newt otherwise), and a remarkable ability to regenerate tissue - as a result, this response does not appear to be particularly detrimental to the newt. The Ribbed Newt would make a rather unpleasant meal, but has consistently proven to make an excellent pet.
Care:
Mature newts can grow to be quite sizable (noticeably larger than most other types of newt), and one should make sure to give them the appropriate amount of space. Also, in their natural habitat, this variety of newt spends a great deal of time around ponds, ditches, and other slow-moving bodies of water - it is important to factor this into establishing its home. These newts are quite comfortable with a largely aquatic environment, provided they have something to rest upon when they wish. A few reasonably-sized pieces of cork wood should serve this purpose, offering them a pleasant respite from the water. As with many other varieties of newt, water straight from the tap is potentially harmful, so it is recommended to use de-chlorinated water or spring water. It is suggested your newt have some form of filtration for its aquatic environment - an undergravel or power filter should do nicely.
The Ribbed Newt is a carnivore, and will require different varieties of live food as it matures. Their tastes are not particularly exotic, and they share many preferences with other species of newt. Younger ones will prefer smaller prey such as whiteworm and tubiflex, while older (and therefore larger) pets will quite happily dine on slugs and earthworms. They are rather shy, and will occasionally abstain from eating while observed - particularly early on. As the newt becomes more comfortable with its environment, it will generally become bolder. As in many other regards, patience is tremendously valuable in working towards putting your new newt at ease.
If you're considering a newt as a pet, the Ribbed Newt would be an excellent choice. They are interesting, beautiful and remarkably low-maintained creatures. With the proper care and attention, they are quite content in captivity. This having been said, it may be wise to properly secure their environment - the Ribbed Newt has a reputation for escape attempts.
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