La Estrella salamander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids La Estrella salamander |
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The Nototriton picadoi, often called the La Estrella salamander, is a small amphibian. It belongs to a group of salamanders known as Plethodontidae. This special salamander lives only in one specific area of Costa Rica.
About the La Estrella Salamander
The La Estrella salamander is a type of salamander. Salamanders are amazing creatures. They are amphibians, meaning they can live both on land and in water. They have smooth, moist skin. This salamander was first described in 1911 by a scientist named Leonhard Hess Stejneger.
Where It Lives
This salamander is found only in the Cordillera de Talamanca. This is a mountain range in Costa Rica. When an animal or plant lives only in one specific place, it is called endemic. So, the La Estrella salamander is endemic to this mountain range.
Its natural home is in tropical moist montane forests. These are forests found in mountains. They are usually very wet and humid. This environment provides the perfect conditions for the salamander to thrive. It needs the dampness to keep its skin moist.
Why It's in Danger
Sadly, the La Estrella salamander is facing threats. Its biggest problem is habitat loss. This means the places where it lives are disappearing. Forests are being cut down or changed for human activities. When its home is destroyed, the salamander has nowhere to live. This makes it harder for them to find food, shelter, and reproduce. Protecting these special forests is very important to help the La Estrella salamander survive.
See also
In Spanish: Nototriton picadoi para niños
