TaxonHub
Northern Banana Salamander

Northern Banana Salamander

Bolitoglossa rufescens

A small plethodontid salamander endemic to Central America, characterized by its elongated body and arboreal lifestyle. Belongs to the genus Bolitoglossa, known for lungless salamander species that breathe through their skin and mucous membranes.

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Northern Banana Salamander
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Tropical and subtropical humid forests of Central America, primarily found in regions with dense vegetation at elevations between 100-1,500 meters, typically inhabiting forest understory, tree bark, and leaf litter

Ecological Role

Important component of forest ecosystems, controlling insect populations, serving as prey for small predators, and indicating environmental health through sensitivity to habitat changes

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Smooth, permeable skin ranging from reddish-brown to dark brown coloration with potential mottled patterns
  • LIMBS WINGS Four relatively short limbs with fine digits, adapted for climbing and gripping vegetation
  • HEAD SENSORY Relatively large eyes, well-developed olfactory capabilities, flattened head with pronounced snout
  • BODY STRUCTURE Slender, elongated body typically 7-12 cm in total length, with smooth, moist skin adapted for cutaneous respiration
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Rovito S, Parra-Olea G, Lee D, Wake D
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Plethodontidae