Pseudoeurycea rex facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pseudoeurycea rex |
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The royal false brook salamander (scientific name: Pseudoeurycea rex) is a special type of salamander. It belongs to the Plethodontidae family, which means it is a "lungless salamander." These amazing creatures are found in the cool, moist forests of western Guatemala. You can also find them on the Mexican side of the border near a volcano called Volcán Tacaná.
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What Does the Royal Salamander Look Like?
The royal false brook salamander is a small but interesting amphibian. Male salamanders can grow up to 89 mm (3.5 in) long. Females can be a bit longer, reaching about 90 mm (3.5 in) in total length. More than half of their total length is made up by their tail.
Body Features
Their head is shaped like a blunt oval. The tail is round and gets narrower where it joins the body. They have strong, well-developed legs. Both their fingers and toes have a bit of webbing at the base. This webbing might help them move around in their damp homes.
Color and Markings
The top of their body is a pinkish-gray color. This color fades into a plain gray on their sides and tail. The tail often has some white swirly patterns, like marble, and is light gray underneath. Their throat also has these white marble-like markings. You might see some light patterns on the top of their snout too.
Where the Royal Salamander Lives
Pseudoeurycea rex lives in coniferous forests, which are forests with trees like pines and firs. They also live in open grassy areas above the tree line. These salamanders are found at high altitudes, from 2,450 m (8,040 ft) to 4,000 m (13,000 ft) above sea level. Most of them live above 2,800 m (9,200 ft). They can even survive in forests that have been slightly damaged.
Life Cycle
Unlike some amphibians, these salamanders have a direct development. This means they do not have a free-swimming tadpole stage. Instead, young salamanders hatch directly from eggs looking like tiny versions of the adults. Scientists have found these salamanders hiding under logs.
Why the Royal Salamander Needs Our Help
The royal false brook salamander used to be very common in Guatemala. There were many of them, living in high numbers. However, their population has dropped a lot, and they are now very rare. Scientists are still trying to figure out all the reasons for this big decline.
Threats to Their Home
These salamanders are threatened by habitat loss. This happens when their natural homes are destroyed or changed. Some of the main reasons for habitat loss include:
- Overgrazing: Too many farm animals eating plants can damage their forest homes.
- Clear-cutting: When all the trees in a forest are cut down.
- Human settlement: As people build more homes and towns, they take away the salamanders' habitat.
The good news is that some areas where Pseudoeurycea rex lives are protected. These protected areas help keep their homes safe.
