A salamander species endemic to western France, Portugal, and northern Spain, characterized by distinctive marbled dorsal patterning and aquatic-terrestrial life cycle.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Inhabits temperate forests, woodland edges, meadows, and freshwater ecosystems like ponds, streams, and small lakes; requires moisture-rich environments with moderate vegetation cover
Ecological Role
Critical component of forest and aquatic ecosystems, controlling insect populations and serving as prey for larger predators; indicator species for environmental health
Morphology
SKIN COATSmooth, moist skin with distinctive marbled green and black dorsal pattern; permeable skin for cutaneous respiration
LIMBS WINGSFour limbs with four digits on forelimbs, five on hindlimbs; adaptable for both aquatic and terrestrial locomotion
HEAD SENSORYBroad, flattened head with well-developed eyes; external gills during larval stage; sensitive chemosensory capabilities
BODY STRUCTUREMedium-sized salamander, typically 11-16 cm total length; robust body with laterally compressed tail for swimming
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Bibron, Gabriel; Duméril, Auguste Henri André; Duméril, C.
