Scented cave salamander
A species of European cave salamanders, Also known as Duftender höhlensalamander Scientific name : Speleomantes imperialis Genus : European cave salamanders
Scented cave salamander, A species of European cave salamanders
Also known as:
Duftender höhlensalamander
Scientific name: Speleomantes imperialis
Genus: European cave salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Imperial cave salamander or scented cave salamander (Speleomantes imperialis) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae, endemic to Sardinia. Its natural habitats are temperate forests, rocky areas, caves, and subterranean habitats (other than caves). It is threatened by habitat loss.
General Info
Lifespan
12-15 years
Diet
Scented cave salamander is primarily insectivorous. Its diet chiefly comprises small arthropods such as spiders and beetles. Specially adapted for small prey, scented cave salamander catches them on the forest floor usually during the night hours.
Appearance
Scented cave salamander is a small sized salamander with a slender body, smooth skin, and short legs. Its main color is usually dark brown to black, often specked with gold or white. Unlike many other salamanders, it lacks a tail fin. The female scented cave salamander is distinguished from the male by its slightly larger size. This nocturnal species has outstandingly large, bulbous eyes which amplify light, enabling it to navigate in low light conditions.
Behavior
The scented cave salamander displays a predominantly nocturnal lifestyle, adapting to its natural cavernous habitats. Known for unique vertical climbing abilities, it exhibits solitary behaviour, marking territory with pheromones and engaging in territorial disputes during breeding season. This species has peculiar courtship rituals involving tactile and visual signals. Though lacking migration patterns, it resorts to hibernation in adverse weather conditions.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Species
Scented cave salamander 
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