Tapanti climbing salamander facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tapanti climbing salamander |
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The Tapanti climbing salamander (Bolitoglossa epimela) is a type of salamander that lives only in Costa Rica. It belongs to a family of salamanders called Plethodontidae.
This special salamander makes its home in warm, wet forests. You can find it in both low-lying tropical forests and higher up in the mountains. Sadly, the Tapanti climbing salamander is currently in danger because its natural home is being lost.
What is a Salamander?
A salamander is an amphibian, which means it's an animal that can live both on land and in water. They are often confused with lizards, but salamanders have smooth, moist skin, while lizards have scales. Most salamanders need to keep their skin wet to breathe.
Where Does it Live?
The Tapanti climbing salamander is endemic to Costa Rica. This means it's the only place in the world where this specific salamander lives naturally. It prefers very specific places:
- Warm, wet forests in low areas.
- Wet forests higher up in the mountains.
These forests are full of plants and moisture, which is perfect for salamanders that need damp environments to survive.
Why is it in Danger?
The biggest threat to the Tapanti climbing salamander is habitat loss. This happens when the forests where they live are cut down or changed by humans. When their homes disappear, these salamanders have nowhere to live, find food, or reproduce. Protecting these forests is very important to help the Tapanti climbing salamander survive.
See also
In Spanish: Bolitoglossa epimela para niños
