Hartweg's climbing salamander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hartweg's climbing salamander |
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A Hartweg's climbing salamander (Bolitoglossa hartwegi) is a cool type of salamander. People also call it the Hartweg's mushroomtongue salamander or just Hartweg's salamander. This amazing creature belongs to a family called Plethodontidae. You can find these salamanders living in the forests of north-central Chiapas, Mexico. They also live in a nearby mountain range in Guatemala called the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes.
Who is Hartweg?
This special salamander is named after a scientist named Norman Hartweg. He was an American herpetologist. A herpetologist is someone who studies amphibians and reptiles. Norman Hartweg spent many years studying animals in the Chiapas region. He was a very skilled scientist who helped many others learn about tropical animals.
What Does It Look Like?
Hartweg's climbing salamanders are not very big. Male salamanders are usually about 3.4 to 4.7 centimeters long. Female salamanders are a bit longer, measuring about 3.4 to 5.4 centimeters. This measurement is taken from their snout (nose) to their vent (a special opening).
They have a strong tail that is about two-thirds the length of their body. Their body is sturdy, and their snout is short and flat. They have thin, medium-length legs. Their hands and feet are quite large, which helps them climb!
Where Does It Live?
Hartweg's climbing salamanders live in forests. These forests often have conifer trees (like pine trees) and oak trees. They especially like areas with limestone rocks. You can find them living at high places, from about 1,200 to 2,800 meters above sea level.
They often hide in cracks in rocks. Sometimes, you might find them under loose pieces of rock or under the bark of fallen logs. They can even live in bromeliad plants that grow on trees!
How Is It Doing?
This salamander is quite common in its habitat. It can handle some changes to its home, which is good news. However, losing their natural habitat is still a problem for them. Scientists and conservationists work to protect these unique creatures and their forest homes.
See also
In Spanish: Bolitoglossa hartwegi para niños
