Before the salamander, a life in water
The stream is also where the transformation begins.
Explore this story
Your choice is saved only in this browser.
The gold-striped salamander’s life begins in connection with water. LPN describes eggs often attached to the substrate and larvae that remain in quiet water until metamorphosis, in a development period that may last one to two years.
During this stage, they feed on small aquatic animals, including insects, molluscs and crustaceans. Pollution and habitat loss threaten this cycle; water and surrounding vegetation matter together. The story explains the biology of the species mentioned for Cabreira, without locating breeding areas.
Completing metamorphosis is not the same as becoming able to reproduce. LPN places male sexual maturity at around three to four years and female maturity between four and five. Body transformation and reproductive maturity are therefore distinct stages. These ranges describe species biology; they cannot predict the age of an individual seen in a photograph.
THREE MOMENTS OF THE SALAMANDRA-LUSITAN
Open every moment and compare what's happening.
Eggs · start in water
The laying depends on the watercourses. Eggs are often attached to the substrate.
Larvas · transform the body
The larval development to metamorphosis can last one to two years.
Maturity · be able to reproduce
LPN indicates about three to four years for males and four to five for females.
Source and context
Link to Nature Protection — Salamander-lusitan
Accessed:
Visit Cabeceiras — natural heritage of Serra da Cabreira
Accessed:
Editorial summary; the date of consultation is not the date of the facts.