# Lissotriton vulgaris

**Newt / Mindre vattensalamander / Smooth Newt**

Information about this species.

This species is an important part of the ecosystems in Västerbotten.

## FAQs

- **How does the smooth newt survive the severe winters in the Scandinavian taiga?**: In Fennoscandia, the smooth newt hibernates almost exclusively terrestrially in frost-free refugia, such as within coarse woody debris (CWD), rodent burrows, or under thick moss layers. The insulating snowpack is critical to mitigating soil frost depth and ensuring the survival of these ectothermic animals.
- **What role do forest peatlands play in the reproduction of this species?**: Small water bodies in boreonemoral and boreal forests, especially fish-less pools (rimpis) in bogs and temporary meltwater ponds, offer ideal spawning habitats. The absence of fish reduces predation pressure, while the shallow waters warm quickly, accelerating larval development.


## Weitere Informationen

- Illustration: Lissotriton vulgaris
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden