Dermophis occidentalis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dermophis occidentalis |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Dermophis
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| Species: |
occidentalis
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The Dermophis occidentalis is a very special animal. It is a type of caecilian, which is an amphibian. Amphibians are animals like frogs and salamanders. Caecilians look a bit like large worms or small snakes. This particular caecilian lives only in Costa Rica, a country in Central America. You can find it in the lowlands and on the lower parts of mountains. Scientists are still studying this unique creature to learn more about it.
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
The Dermophis occidentalis is a small caecilian. It usually grows to be about 192 to 235 millimeters long. That's about 7.5 to 9.2 inches, which is shorter than a standard ruler! Its body is quite thin. It has many rings around its body, called annuli. These rings help it move.
Its head is narrow and a light grayish-tan color. The top part of its body is a dark lavender-plum color. This color gets lighter on its belly.
Where Does It Live and How Is It Protected?
Its Home
The Dermophis occidentalis lives in warm, wet places. These are usually lowland and submontane rainforests. You can find them at elevations from about 365 to 970 meters (1,200 to 3,180 feet) above sea level.
This caecilian is a subterranean species. This means it lives mostly underground. You might find it hiding under logs or in piles of dead leaves on the forest floor. It is also a viviparous animal. This means that the mother gives birth to live young, instead of laying eggs.
Looking After Them
We don't know a lot about the Dermophis occidentalis. Because it lives underground, it's hard for scientists to study. One big problem for this animal is deforestation. This is when forests are cut down. Losing their forest homes can be a threat to these caecilians.
Luckily, some of the places where this caecilian lives are protected. For example, its home range includes parts of the Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica. National parks help keep animals and their homes safe.
See also
In Spanish: Dermophis occidentalis para niños
