Amphibians have unique skin compared to that of many other vertebrates. They use their skin to breathe, and also to ‘drink’ water. Many salamanders feel slimy because their skin is covered in a mucous coating, which helps them keep their skin moist, enabling them to efficiently breathe through their skin. The slime also creates an environment … Read more
Salamanders are intriguing creatures that attract the curiosity of many people. However, there are also many misconceptions about them. Like all amphibians, salamanders have bones. Their internal skeletons are made up of many interconnected bones and cartilage. Salamanders’ bones are light and hollow, which helps them move efficiently on the ground and in the water. … Read more
Salamanders are the only amphibians that have tails in the adult stage of their life. Their slender bodies and four short legs, give them a somewhat lizard-like appearance. But have you ever wondered why salamanders have long tails, when other amphibians, such as frogs, don’t? Salamanders’ long tails serve many important functions. Salamanders use their … Read more
Salamanders are the only amphibians that have tails in the adult stage of their life. Like Lizards, salamanders can lose part of most of their tail, and subsequently regenerate it. But have you ever wondered why this happens? The main reason salamanders lose their tails is to defend themselves when they are grabbed by a … Read more
Amphibians are a diverse group of species found in a wide variety of habitats, from rain forests to mountainous areas, to dry regions. But have you ever wondered if amphibians can be found in the ocean, or in other marine environments? The majority of amphibian species can not live in saltwater because salt tends to … Read more
The state of Oklahoma is home to at least 24 different species and subspecies of salamanders. Most of these salamanders are terrestrial, which means they live on land. But there are also several fully aquatic salamander species. Terrestrial salamanders prefer to live in moist habitats and are typically found in shady, forested areas, not far from … Read more