Italian cave salamander
A species of European cave salamanders, Also known as Italienischer schleuderzungensalamander Scientific name : Speleomantes italicus Genus : European cave salamanders
Italian cave salamander, A species of European cave salamanders
Also known as:
Italienischer schleuderzungensalamander
Scientific name: Speleomantes italicus
Genus: European cave salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By mattiamenchetti , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Italian cave salamander (Speleomantes italicus) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. Endemic to Italy, its natural habitats are temperate forests, rocky areas, caves, and subterranean habitats (other than caves). It is threatened by habitat loss.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Italian cave salamander is known to be insectivorous in nature, mainly subsisting on a diet of small arthropods. This species exhibits a penchant for preying on tiny beetles, spiders, and various insects.
Appearance
Italian cave salamander is a medium-sized salamander with a slender body and skin that is shiny and smooth. It generally ranges in color from light brown to olive green, often exhibiting subtle mottling throughout. Its long tail is slightly flattened horizontally and it has small, fascinated eyes. No significant differences are noted in the coloration or size between genders or different age groups in this species.
Behavior
Italian cave salamander exhibit a solitary, nocturnal lifestyle, usually hiding in rock crevices during the day and actively foraging at night. Their territorial nature involves direct forms of communication like body posturing. A unique behavior includes ‘helicopter’ tail wagging before mating. Adapted notably for climbing, italian cave salamander can effectively maneuver vertical surfaces.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Species
Italian cave salamander 
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