Is this product safe for my aquatic newt?

[bugmankeith]

I got this large rock type thing to put in a 10 gallon tank for my newt as the land area. I'll basically have this, and a few flat rocks scattered around underwater, and adding treated water.

My question is before I use it, is it safe for aquatic newts? I used some sandpaper to smooth out the rough edges, and underneath it revealed a whitish rock where I rubbed too much (just tiny areas not the whole rock). I then after ran it under hot water, then cold, and towel dried it to remove any dust.

Last time I tried a similar product (but not from same company), my newt crawled onto it, and after an hour it got stuck to the bridge, so it couldnt go back into the water. I would have to put water on my newt so it could free itself. This worried me and for the past 2 years my newt only had a land area the size of a hamburger roll, and to be honest my newt needs land so I have to try something now.

This new decor I brought seems to be smoother than that product I tried a few years ago, so mabye this is better than a rough surface.

Here is the product.

http://www.zilla-rules.com/products/dcor/rock-dens.htm

 

[TheDarkFinder]

I do not keep newts but I do keep poison dart frogs, and the general advice there is when it doubt do not use it. I wonder about the getting stuck thing. you may need to up the humidity.

If you need to use it IE need something to go from water to land, then cover it in moss. It well remain moist and not allow the newt to get stuck.

 

[bugmankeith]

Yeah the moss may help, thanks.

 

[bugmankeith]

But still, anyone know for a fact if that rock is ok. I like to hear from people who have used the product because they would know best.

 

[TNeal]

I have kept many species of newt. I have never used the product you are mentioning. I have always used wood for climbing out points. Be very careful as salamanders skin are very sensative and is also very permiable.

One last thing - make sure your newt is actually an aquatic species. You would be amazed at how many species of newts/salamanders are not.

Hope this helps,

Tom