Salamandrídeos

Salamandrídeos is a family of amphibians belonging to the order Urodela, commonly known as salamanders. These semi-aquatic or terrestrial creatures are characterized by their elongated bodies, short limbs, and long tails. They typically have smooth, moist skin, which plays a crucial role in their respiration. While many salamanders are brightly colored as a warning to predators, others possess more muted camouflage. Their diet consists mainly of insects, worms, and other invertebrates. Salamandrídeos are found in various habitats across the Northern Hemisphere, including forests, meadows, and near bodies of water. Reproduction in this family can vary, with some species laying eggs in water and others giving birth to live young. The larval stage, if present, is aquatic and breathes with external gills. Some salamanders exhibit neoteny, retaining larval features into adulthood. Despite their often small size, salamandrídeos are an important part of many ecosystems, serving as both predators and prey. Conservation concerns exist for some species due to habitat loss and pollution.