Okinawa Spiny Newt

Echinotriton andersoni

Japanese Name: オキナワイボイモリ
Chinese Name: 沖繩棘螈
English Name: Okinawa Spiny Newt
Origin: Okinawajima, Tokashikijima

This species is designated as a natural monument in Okinawa Prefecture and is one of the most primitive species in the family Salamandridae. For this reason, it is often referred to as a “living fossil.” The name comes from the protruding ribs on both sides of its body. Its population is small, and it faces the risk of poaching.

In the past, it was considered to distribute from Okinawajima to Amami Oshima, but since the populations on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima Island have been classified as a new species, Echinotriton raffaellii (2022), this species is now found only on Okinawajima, while the population in Tokashikijima has not been observed in recent years.

Rederence: Author’s website

Sep 17, 2025, Kunigami
April, 2023: Anderson’s Spiny Newt with a reddish body color
Dec 30, 2023: Kunigami
April 2024: Eggs laid under fallen leaves
May 2, 2024: Kunigami Village – Spiny Newt tadpole, Microhyla tadpole (right), Okinawa tree frog tadpole (below)
March 23, 2023: Kunigami – Individual about 2 cm
December 30, 2023: Kunigami – Individual about 6 cm
Spiny Newts gathering during the breeding season
Spiny Newt eating earthworms

If you want to observe this species…

I recommend joining the herping in January or February!

※ Important Notes for Observation:
The Spiny Newt is very sensitive to light. To protect this rare species, avoid using strong light when photographing and use light from above, not directly in front (towards the eyes of the animal). Keep your photo sessions as brief as possible.