Nauta salamander facts for kids
The Nauta salamander (Bolitoglossa altamazonica), also known as the Nauta mushroomtongue salamander, is a type of salamander that belongs to the Plethodontidae family. These amazing creatures are found in South America. You can find them on the eastern and lower slopes of the Andes mountains. Their home stretches from Venezuela and Colombia through Ecuador and Peru all the way to Bolivia. They also live in parts of Brazil.
The name "Nauta salamander" comes from the place where this species was first discovered. This place is called Nauta, located in the Loreto Province of the Peruvian Amazon.
Quick facts for kids Nauta salamander |
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What Does the Nauta Salamander Look Like?
Adult Nauta salamanders are quite small. Their body length, from their nose to where their tail begins, is usually between 31 and 48 mm. Their tail is almost as long as their body!
Their colors can be different from one salamander to another. Most of them are darker on their backs and sides. Their bellies are usually lighter in color. Some Nauta salamanders might have light stripes or spots on their backs. Others are just a solid dark color on their backs.
Where Do They Live and How Are They Protected?
The Nauta salamander's natural habitat is the rainforest in low-lying areas. They like to live on low plants and vegetation. These salamanders are quite common in the areas where they live.
Even though they are common, they face some dangers. Their homes are sometimes destroyed because of agriculture (farming) and the planting of trees. This loss of their natural habitat is the main threat to the Nauta salamander. People are working to protect these special creatures and their rainforest homes.
