FIRE SALAMANDER

Salamandra salamandra

Subspecies:

S. s. alfredschmidti

S. s. Almanzoris

S. s. Bejarae

S. s. bernardezi

S. s. beschkovi

S. s. crespoi

S. s. fastuosa

S. s. gallaica

S. s. gigliolii

S. s. morenica

S. s. salamandra

S. s. terrestris

S. s. werneri

The Fire Salamander is a species of amphibian found in Central Europe. The name ‘Fire Salamander’ comes from the ancient myth that they were born from fire. When logs were thrown into fire, the salamanders living inside quickly crawled out to avoid being burned. Their bodies contain glands that excrete an alkaloid poison known as Samanderain. This poison is known to cause convulsions, respiratory paralysis and eventual death. Their populations are decreasing from a disease caused by a fungus called Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans or Bsal. This disease deteriorates the skin and soon kills the salamander.

They are found in deciduous forests where they can hide amongst the leaves and logs. They hunt for small insects, worms and slugs. They can grow to be about 6 In (15 Cm) long and weigh 0.08 Lbs (40 G.)