[3] The paddle-tail newt is characterized by a flat body and a long, paddle-like tail.

The morphology and size of this species are similar to, if not larger than, Pachytriton brevipes.

Since food is scarce for them in their natural environments, they can go for weeks without eating, but should be fed regularly when kept in captivity.

Paddle-tail newt longevity in the wild is currently unknown, but in captivity it usually ranges from 10 to 20 years.

They fan their tails when they are trying to attract the attention of another newt, when they are startled or frightened, or when approached by a conspecific.