Cerro Pando salamander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cerro Pando salamander |
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The Cerro Pando salamander (Bolitoglossa compacta) is a special kind of salamander. It belongs to a group of salamanders called Plethodontidae, which are known for not having lungs! Instead, they breathe through their skin.
You can find this salamander in two countries: Costa Rica and Panama. It lives in very specific places, usually in warm, wet montane forests found high up in the mountains.
Sadly, the Cerro Pando salamander is in danger. Its biggest threat is habitat loss. This means the places where it lives are being destroyed or changed, making it hard for these salamanders to survive.
About the Cerro Pando Salamander
The Cerro Pando salamander is a small amphibian. Like other salamanders, it has smooth, moist skin and a long tail. It's named after the Cerro Pando mountain, where it was first discovered. Scientists officially described this species in 1973.
Where It Lives
This salamander prefers a particular type of home:
- Subtropical or tropical moist montane forests: This means it lives in forests that are warm and very wet, usually found on mountainsides in tropical areas.
- High altitudes: It lives in cooler, cloudier parts of these mountains.
- Hidden spots: It often hides under rocks, logs, or in leaf litter on the forest floor. This helps keep its skin moist, which is important for breathing.
Why It's in Danger
The Cerro Pando salamander is considered an endangered species. This means there aren't many of them left, and they could disappear forever if we don't protect them.
- Habitat loss: The main reason they are in danger is that their forest homes are being cut down or changed for things like farming, building, or logging. When their habitat is gone, they have nowhere to live or find food.
- Climate change: Changes in weather patterns, like less rain or higher temperatures, can also harm these salamanders. They need a very specific moist and cool environment to survive.
Protecting these unique creatures means protecting their mountain forest homes.
See also
- Bolitoglossa compacta para niños (in Spanish)
