Flat-headed salamander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Flat-headed salamander |
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The flat-headed salamander (scientific name: Desmognathus planiceps) is a fascinating type of salamander. It belongs to the Plethodontidae family, which are lungless salamanders. This special creature lives only in the United States, mainly found in Virginia and possibly North Carolina. Being endemic means it naturally lives in just one specific area.
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Discovering the Flat-Headed Salamander
What Makes It Unique?
The flat-headed salamander looks a lot like its relatives in the Desmognathus group. However, it has some special features that help scientists tell it apart. Look for its noticeably flat head. It also has a reddish-brown stripe along its back. This stripe is often decorated with small, dark spots. On its belly, you might see tan-colored spots.
Where Does It Live?
This salamander makes its home in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It also lives in the nearby Piedmont region. You can find it from southern Roanoke County down to the start of the Dan River in Patrick County. Its range extends east to Pittsylvania County. Scientists have also found possible flat-headed salamanders near the New River in Floyd County. They might even live in parts of North Carolina.
Its Scientific Journey
Scientists first described the flat-headed salamander in 1955. For a while, some thought it was the same as the northern dusky salamander. They were grouped together. But in 2008, a special study looked closely at its family tree. This study confirmed that Desmognathus planiceps is indeed its own unique species. So, it was officially recognized again as distinct.
