Roughskin Newt

Tarichia granulosa

Roughskin Newt. Photo:Torsten Bernhardt

This medium sized (178mm) newt, characterized by a rough, grainy skin, is relatively common in British Columbia. Its yellow to orange belly contrasts markedly with its drab brown or tan back, although one would rarely see the bright underside unless the newt rears its head and tail in a defensive posture. After all, a small animal benefits greatly from remaining inconspicuous; but if it should happen to find itself threatened, displaying its bright colours may help it scare off predators that recognize it as a warning of toxicity, for the roughskin newt contains in its skin an extremely potent neurotoxin called tetrodotoxin. As a result, it should never be handled carelessly.

Distribution of Roughskin Newt in Canada