Newt
Newts, as with salamanders in general and other amphibians, serve as bioindicators because of their thin, sensitive skin and evidence of their presence (or absence) can serve as an indicator of the health of the environment. Most species are highly sensitive to subtle changes in the pH level of the streams and lakes where they live. Because their skin is permeable to water, they absorb oxygen and other substances they need through their skin. Scientists study the stability of the amphibian population when studying the water quality of a particular body of water.
Eastern newt
From to in length. Central newts are brown or green in color, with fine black dots all over the body. There may be a row of red spots on each side of the body. The belly is yellow or orange, and is noticeably lighter than the rest of the body. The skin of newts is not as slippery as the skin of salamanders, and may appear to be rough and dry for parts of their lives.