Dendrotriton cuchumatanus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dendrotriton cuchumatanus |
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The forest bromeliad salamander (scientific name: Dendrotriton cuchumatanus) is a special type of salamander. It belongs to the Plethodontidae family. This salamander lives only in Guatemala, which means it is endemic there. Scientists first found it near San Juan Ixcoy in the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes mountains. Even though it's called 'forest bromeliad salamander,' it doesn't actually live in bromeliad plants.
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What Does It Look Like?
Male forest bromeliad salamanders can grow to be about 31 millimeters (just over an inch) long. Females are slightly larger, reaching about 32 millimeters. This measurement is from their snout (nose) to their vent (where waste leaves the body).
Body Features
Their tail is quite short. In adult males, it is only a little longer than their body. Younger salamanders and females have even shorter tails compared to their body size.
Their arms and legs are a medium length for males. Females have shorter limbs. Their hands and feet have some webbing, which means the skin is partly connected between their fingers and toes.
Colors and Patterns
The colors and patterns on these salamanders can be different from one individual to another. However, they don't have distinct color groups. Many of them have a reddish-brown or tan stripe down their back.
Some salamanders have a spotted pattern of gray and brown on their backs. Others are mostly a solid gray-black or brown-black color. Almost all of them have a lighter colored bar between their eyes.
Where Does It Live?
The forest bromeliad salamander lives in very wet oak forests. These forests are found at high altitudes, around 2,860 meters (about 9,380 feet) above sea level.
Its Home in the Forest
Scientists have found these salamanders hiding under moss and bark on large fallen trees. They also live in moss on the ground. Unlike many of their relatives, they do not live inside bromeliad plants.
Why Is It Endangered?
The forest bromeliad salamander is in danger because its home is disappearing. People are clearing the forests where it lives. This is called habitat loss.
Protecting Its Home
As of 2008, the main place where this salamander is found was planned to become a semi-protected area. This would help keep its forest home safe.
See also
In Spanish: Dendrotriton cuchumatanus para niños
