Supramonte cave salamander
A species of European cave salamanders Scientific name : Speleomantes supramontis Genus : European cave salamanders
Supramonte cave salamander, A species of European cave salamanders
Scientific name: Speleomantes supramontis
Genus: European cave salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Supramonte cave salamander (Speleomantes supramontis) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae, endemic to the island of Sardinia (Italy).
General Info
Lifespan
12-15 years
Diet
Supramonte cave salamander is an insectivorous species, predominantly consuming small arthropods. It utilizes its tongue to snap up prey, showing a preference for spiders, beetles, and ants. Its diet may include other small invertebrates, dependent upon local availability.
Appearance
Supramonte cave salamander is a small-sized amphibian with an elongated, slim body, sturdy limbs, and a short tail. It is covered in smooth, moist skin that exhibits a dominant light to dark brown coloration. Darker spots or marbling are often present across the body. This salamander possesses large, bulging eyes, contributing to its distinctive look. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Supramonte cave salamander is a nocturnal and secretive cave-dweller, surfacing only during heavy rains to forage. It's largely solitary except during the mating season. Remarkably, instead of vocalizing, it communicates using body movements. Supramonte cave salamander's unique behavior is a vibrant tail-wagging display, used as a warning signal to deter potential predators.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Species
Supramonte cave salamander