Tritões

Tritões are a group of amphibians belonging to the family Salamandridae. They are distinguished from other salamanders primarily by their aquatic lifestyle, although many species will spend time on land. Tritões are characterized by their typically slender bodies, long tails, and relatively small limbs. Their skin is often moist and can be smooth or slightly granular.

Many species exhibit a biphasic life cycle, starting as aquatic larvae with external gills, which they eventually reabsorb as they metamorphose into a terrestrial or semi-aquatic adult form. Some species retain larval features throughout their lives, a phenomenon known as neoteny. Tritões are found in various habitats, including ponds, lakes, streams, and damp forests, across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Their diet generally consists of small invertebrates such as insects, worms, and crustaceans.

Reproduction in tritões typically involves the male depositing a spermatophore, which the female then picks up. Eggs are usually laid individually and attached to aquatic vegetation. The diversity within the tritão group means there are variations in size, coloration, and specific adaptations to different environments. Some species are well-known for their vibrant warning coloration, indicating the presence of toxins in their skin. Conservation status varies among species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and pollution.