Texas blind salamander
A species of Brook salamander Scientific name : Eurycea rathbuni Genus : Brook salamander
Texas blind salamander, A species of Brook salamander
Scientific name: Eurycea rathbuni
Genus: Brook salamander
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Texas blind salamander (Eurycea rathbuni) is a rare cave-dwelling troglobite amphibian native to San Marcos, Hays County, Texas, specifically the San Marcos Pool of the Edwards Aquifer. The salamander has blood-red external gills for absorbing oxygen from the water. The salamander's mature length is 13Â cm (5Â in). Its diet varies by what flows into its cave, including blind shrimp (Palaemonetes antrorum), snails, and amphipods.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Texas blind salamander's food primarily consists of small invertebrates. Specific dietary components include various species of arachnids and aquatic insects, with an emphasis on beetle larvae, which are significant constituents of their diet.
Appearance
Texas blind salamander is a relatively small salamander, long and slender with stubby limbs, and smooth, moist skin. Their coloration ranges from pale yellow to dark brown, often with irregular dark patches. They are eyeless, which creates a distinctive look. The species showcases no significant differences between ages, genders, or subspecies.
Behavior
Texas blind salamander, an amphibian, is chiefly nocturnal and tends to retreat to caves and wells during hot, dry periods, behavior that helps it to survive in its arid habitat. Notably, the species signifies a unique non-aggressive interaction with others of the same species. It has a solitary nature, with limited gregarious behaviors apart from mating seasons.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Genus
Brook salamander Species
Texas blind salamander 
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