Dermophis glandulosus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dermophis glandulosus |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Dermophis
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| Species: |
glandulosus
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| Synonyms | |
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Dermophis balboai Taylor, 1968 |
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Dermophis glandulosus is a special kind of caecilian. Caecilians are amphibians that look a bit like worms or snakes. This species belongs to the Dermophiidae family. You can find it in parts of northwestern Colombia (in the Córdoba and Antioquia Departments), Costa Rica, and Panama. It is the southernmost species among all Dermophis caecilians.
What does it look like?
Dermophis glandulosus is a moderately large caecilian. It can grow up to 405 mm (about 16 inches) long. The very first specimen found was a young one, measuring 159 mm. Because of its small size, scientists first thought it was the same as another species, Dermophis parviceps.
However, new discoveries showed that Dermophis glandulosus is a separate species. It grows much larger than Dermophis parviceps. It also has a different look. Its head does not have the strong contrasting colors seen in Dermophis parviceps. It also has more secondary annuli. Annuli are ring-like grooves around its body.
The top part of its body, called the dorsum, is a purplish lavender color. Its belly, or ventral surfaces, is a dull cream color. It often has faint lavender clouding.
Where does it live and how is it protected?
Dermophis glandulosus lives in humid forests. These can be in the mountains or in lowlands. In Colombia, you can find it at elevations from 40 to 140 m (about 130 to 460 feet) above sea level.
This caecilian mostly lives underground. It is a subterranean animal. But sometimes, you can find it under logs or in piles of leaves on the forest floor. Scientists believe it is viviparous. This means it gives birth to live young, instead of laying eggs.
Deforestation is a possible threat to this species. Deforestation is when forests are cut down. However, scientists are not sure how serious this threat is right now.
Dermophis glandulosus is found in several protected areas. These include La Amistad International Park and Darién National Park in Panama. It also lives in Las Cruces Biological Station in Costa Rica. These parks help protect its habitat.
See also
In Spanish: Dermophis glandulosus para niños
