Four-toed salamander

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iFour-toed salamander

Conservation status
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Caudata
Family: Plethodontidae
Genus: Hemidactylium
Tschudi, 1838
Binomial name
Hemidactylium scutatum

The Four-toed salamander (Hemidactylium scutatum) is native to North America. It is a member of the Plethodontidae family of salamanders, which is characterized by their absence of lungs; they instead achieve respiration through their skin and the tissues lining their mouth. It is a relatively small salamander, and usually only grows to lengths of 2 to 3.5 inches (5 to 10cm) at adulthood. It can be identified by its four-toed hind feet and its milk white belly, which is peppered with black markings.

[edit] References

  • Hammerson (2004). Hemidactylium scutatum. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 06 May 2006. Database entry includes a range map and a brief justification of why this species is of least concern
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