Tetrodotoxin-Bearing Newts
The California newt is a venomous amphibian native to the West Coast of the United States. Its back is black and its belly is a vibrant red, giving it an appearance similar to the Japanese fire belly newt. When threatened by predators, it releases tetrodotoxin, a potent toxin also found in pufferfish, from the warts on its back, so caution is advised even when touching it.
It’s not just the California newt that possesses this toxin; Japanese newts also carry the same poison. However, the California newt’s venom is not immediately lethal, and in most cases, if you accidentally touch it and wash your hands immediately, it won’t lead to severe symptoms. Understanding its toxicity, it is considered possible to keep them as pets.
Advertisements
Advertisements