Dermophis glandulosus

Dermophis glandulosus is a species of caecilian in the family Dermophiidae. It is found in northwestern Colombia (Córdoba and Antioquia Departments[4]), Costa Rica, and Panama.[3] It is the southernmost species among Dermophis.[5]

Dermophis glandulosus
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain:Eukaryota
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Amphibia
Order:Gymnophiona
Clade:Apoda
Family:Dermophiidae
Genus:Dermophis
Species:
D. glandulosus
Binomial name
Dermophis glandulosus
Taylor, 1955[2]
Synonyms[3]

Dermophis balboai Taylor, 1968

Description

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Dermophis glandulosus is a moderately large caecilian, measuring up to 405 mm (15.9 in) in total length. The type specimen was a juvenile measuring 159 mm. Also subsequent specimens were relatively small, leading to a conclusion that it was synonymous with Dermophis parviceps. However, new specimens have shown Dermophis glandulosus to be a separate, much larger species than Dermophis parviceps. It also lacks the contrasting head coloration of the latter and has more secondary annuli.[5] The dorsum is purplish lavender, whereas the ventral surfaces are dull cream with dim lavender clouding.[2]

Habitat and conservation

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Dermophis glandulosus occurs in humid montane and lowland forests.[1] In Colombia it occurs at elevations of 40–140 m (130–460 ft) above sea level.[4] It is mainly subterranean, but it is sometimes also found under logs and in leaf litter. It is probably viviparous. Deforestation might be a threat, but the seriousness of this threat is unknown. It is found in La Amistad International Park, Darién National Park (both in Panama), and Las Cruces Biological Station (Costa Rica).[1]

References

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