Bolitoglossa zapoteca
Bolitoglossa zapoteca·Plethodontidae
The Zapotec salamander (Bolitoglossa zapoteca) is a species of salamander found exclusively in the eastern Sierra Madre del Sur mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. It inhabits montane pine-oak forests, including areas that have been significantly degraded from their original state. This species is notably threatened by the loss of its natural habitat.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to two locations in Oaxaca, Mexico.
- ›Inhabits montane pine-oak forests.
- ›Found at elevations around 1,875 meters.
- ›Its extent of occurrence is approximately 435 km2.
- ›Threatened by habitat loss.
Zapotec Salamander
Montane Pine-Oak Forest, Heavily Degraded Former Forest
Oaxaca, Mexico
Habitat Loss
About Bolitoglossa zapoteca
The Zapotec Salamander
The Zapotec salamander, scientifically known as Bolitoglossa zapoteca, is a species belonging to the Plethodontidae family. This salamander is a unique inhabitant of the eastern Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range, located in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of the Zapotec salamander is primarily montane pine-oak forests. It has also been observed in areas that were once forests but have undergone significant degradation. The species is known from only two specific locations within this region: near Quiegolani and on Cerro Piedra Larga, typically found at elevations around 1,875 meters. Its overall extent of occurrence, representing the area where it is found, is approximately 435 square kilometers.
Conservation Concerns
A significant threat to the survival of the Zapotec salamander is habitat loss. The alteration and destruction of its forest environment directly impact its ability to thrive and reproduce, placing this endemic species at risk.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Zapotec salamander found?
The Zapotec salamander is endemic to the eastern Sierra Madre del Sur in Oaxaca, Mexico. It has been documented in two specific locations: near Quiegolani and on Cerro Piedra Larga.
What kind of habitat does the Zapotec salamander prefer?
This species naturally resides in montane pine-oak forests. It can also be found in areas that were formerly forests but have experienced significant degradation.
What is the elevation range for the Zapotec salamander?
The Zapotec salamander has been observed at elevations of approximately 1,875 meters above sea level.
What is the main threat to the Zapotec salamander?
The primary threat facing the Zapotec salamander is habitat loss. This loss likely stems from human activities that alter or destroy its forest environment.
How large is the Zapotec salamander's natural range?
The extent of occurrence for the Zapotec salamander is estimated to be around 435 square kilometers, indicating a relatively restricted natural distribution.
Related Salamander and Newt species
Chiropterotriton priscus
The primeval splayfoot salamander (Chiropterotriton priscus) is a species of salamander native to Mexico, found in high-elevation pine and pine-fir forests. It is distinguished by its terrestrial habits, living under fallen logs and bark, and its endemic range on Cerro Potosí and nearby areas.
Blue Ridge spring salamander
The Blue Ridge spring salamander, a subspecies of the spring salamander (Gyrinophilus porphyriticus), is found in the southern Appalachian Mountains and adjacent Piedmont regions of the United States. This species is distinguished by a distinctive white line from its eye to its nostril, bordered by a dark line, and its varied dorsal coloration ranging from reddish to orange-yellow with black or brown spots. They inhabit cool springs, mountain springs, and moist forest areas, and are notable for their diet which can include other salamanders.
Ambystoma leorae
The Leora's stream salamander (Ambystoma leorae) is a critically endangered mole salamander endemic to a very small region within Mexico's Iztaccihuatl-Popocatepetl National Park. Its survival is threatened by its specific water quality requirements and human activities such as water extraction, cattle grazing, and direct consumption, leading to a single known population persisting on Mount Tlaloc.