The Chinise Giant Salamander can be found in the north, central, south and southwest China. Its habitats are those of mountain streams at elevations below 3281 feet (1000m) with plentiful vegetation and shallow water surrounded with caves and pools.
The Chinise Giant Salamander is a Giant; it measures 3.3 feet (1m) and is one of the world's largest salamander. It has a broad head and mouth. It is usually dark colored with light colors underneath and black patches on its upper side. Its four limbs are short and its tail accounts for more than half of its measure. It has a smooth and thick skin.
This salamander eats crabs, shrimps, aquatic insects, fish and frogs. It hunts at night.
Breeding occurs from August to September.
One of the factors of the salamander's decline is the capitalization on medicine and food. This salamander is also being hunted for food, even though it is a protected animal. The numbers in the wild has decreased. Loss of habitats and the pollution of water are also factors of its decline. The protection of this species needs to be more effective and strict to prevent its extinction.
Bibliography