This newt is easily recognized by its vibrant green and black marbled pattern on its skin, which not only gives it its name but also serves as excellent camouflage among the grass and foliage of its natural habitat. This distinctive pattern is more pronounced in males, especially during the breeding season, adding a bright touch to their already fascinating appearance.

One of their most interesting features is the crest that males develop during the breeding season. This crest, running along their back and tail, is serrated and adds to their ornate look, contrasting sharply with their otherwise smooth bodies. The females, while less flamboyant, boast a lower, smoother dorsal crest and are just as striking with their vivid coloration.

These newts are primarily terrestrial but return to water to breed in late winter and early spring. They choose small, still water bodies, such as ponds or ditches, which are often temporary and free of fish that could pose a threat to their eggs and larvae. The breeding process is quite intriguing: males perform an elaborate courtship display involving a dance to attract females. If successful, the male deposits a spermatophore on the substrate, which the female then picks up with her cloaca to fertilize her eggs. Females lay their eggs individually, carefully wrapping each one in a leaf underwater for protection.

Marbled newts have a fascinating life cycle that reflects their adaptability to both aquatic and terrestrial environments. After hatching, the larvae are fully aquatic and breathe through external gills. As they mature, they undergo metamorphosis, losing their gills and developing lungs to breathe air, transitioning to a predominantly land-based life until their return to the water for reproduction.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

France

2022

Italy

2022

Possibly Extinct, Introduced

Portugal

NT

2022

Spain

2022