Natural History: Notophthlamus viridescens louisianensis

Newton, the central newt, in my hands

On our recent class field study to Fairlawn Plantation, I spotted a well-hidden amphibian trap that was easily overlooked in the numerous branches of the plantation. After opening and unloading the trap, there were several different species of them, one of which was Notophthlamus viridescens louisianensis, or the central newt. As seen in this photo, it is relatively small in size. As an adult, central newts can range from 2.5 to 4 inches in length. This particular newt, which I named Newton, was about 3.5 inches in length. His back legs are wider and there are yellowish glands around the cloaca, indicating that he is a male. Newton has very smooth skin with present dark black spots that are very small on his dorsum and are noticeably larger towards his yellowish-coloured venter.

Newt Life Cycle

The Fairlawn Plantation is a prime habitat for him as an aquatic adult due to its semi-permanent ponds and ample vegetative cover. Central newts have quite an interesting life history, which consists of three stages. These stages are: the aquatic adult stage, the terrestrial adult stage and the terrestrial juvenile stage (or land eft). When larvae hatch, they can either become terrestrial juveniles (via metamorphosis) or they can become aquatic adults. They primarily consume zooplankton and fish eggs during their aquatic stage, and during the terrestrial phase, their diet changes to that of small invertebrates such as insects and worms.

The field study experience was overall a fun one. I wish there were more interesting finds, like snakes. The area itself was very beautiful (with less bugs, thankfully!) and I was surprised to find it very calm and tranquil. A nice place to take walks! Perhaps more interesting amphibians could be found during a different time period than when we were there. Moreover, I would love to stop by the Fairlawn Plantation independently and hopefully stumble across more cool herps.

Sources: Herpetology, Third Edition, Pough et. al
               Reptiles and Amphibians (class field guide), Roger & Collins