First report on the diagnostic, treatment and recovery of a spinal fracture in a vulnerable Marbled Newt (Triturus marmoratus, Latreille, 1800)

Abstract

A free-living adult female Marbled Newt (Triturus marmoratus), a species listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, was admitted to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of UTAD (CRAS-UTAD) with a spinal fracture and dorsal wound exposing the coelomic cavity. Clinical signs included hypoactivity, dyspnoea, and mild dehydration. Imaging confirmed a spinal fracture between the 8^th and 9^th vertebrae, with vertical dislocation and scoliosis, but without evidence of complete spinal cord severance. Treatment involved wound management, pharmacological therapy, and environmental support without spinal fixation. Despite wound complications and a prolonged recovery of 96 days, the animal retained full neurological function and mobility. It was successfully released into its natural habitat, having adapted to residual scoliosis and dermal thickening at the injury site. This case highlights the resilience and regenerative capacity of T. marmoratus and supports the feasibility of conservative management in selected cases of spinal trauma in amphibians.