Search

We analyzed data from 3,546 occurrence records of Fire Salamanders (Salamandra salamandra) from the territory of the Czech Republic where it has a heterogeneous distribution pattern. Its occurrence in terrestrial habitats adjacent to breeding streams is characterized by a mean distance of 103 m, maximum 1,321 m, from the nearest stream. Based on a logistic GLM (generalized linear model) analysis we determined the Fire Salamanders' climatic and habitat associations at landscape scale in the Czech Republic. The main limiting factors for its dispersal include the proximity of small shallow streams in rolling landscapes, the pH of these streams, the presence of broad-leaf or mixed forests, humidity, solar irradiation, and severity of winters. While the absence of suitable breeding habitats is the main limiting factor for their occurrence in more expansive lowlands, factors such as lower temperatures, lower humidity, and the absence of broad-leaf and mixed forests begin to play a role with increasing altitude. Unlike cold temperatures, low amounts of precipitation and higher temperatures do not act as limiters in the Czech Republic. Fire Salamanders respond to the colder climate of higher altitudes with intensified summer activity and the purely bimodal nature of their activity (with spring and autumn peaks) tends to fade at higher altitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional methods of phylogenetic reconstruction and species delimitation may be impeded by frequent hybridization among lineages. In this study, we conducted phylogenetic and clustering analyses of ddRAD genomic data on the entire genus Salamandra, which includes six species and over 25 subspecies of terrestrial salamanders. We expanded previous datasets to include missing subspecies and incorporated new samples, with an emphasis on secondary contact zones. Results obtained from a full dataset of 392 individuals (356,874 bp; 24,192 SNPs) were compared with those obtained after excluding substantially admixed individuals (n = 95; 835,467 bp; 51,557 SNPs) to explore the consequences of introgression on phylogenetic inference and taxonomic arrangement of subspecies. We found conflicting phylogenetic placements for taxa represented by many admixed individuals (identified by clustering ancestries). In contrast, a time-calibrated tree constructed without hybrids largely agrees with previous phylogenetic hypotheses. Within S. atra, we found paraphyly of S. atra atra, suggesting an additional candidate subspecies. Within S. infraimmaculata, two lineages are assignable to known subspecies and we additionally identified a third, deeply diverged lineage sampled near the Turkish/Syrian border. In S. algira, we found limited admixture between the subspecies S. a. tingitana and S. a. splendens despite their geographic proximity. Finally, within S. salamandra, we detected significant levels of hybridization between subspecies, which blurred their phylogenetic relationships, although the removal of admixed samples in subset analyses clarified the situation in most cases. Monophyly was recovered for subspecies that were previously found paraphyletic, including S. s. salamandra, S. s. gallaica, and S. s. fastuosa. Salamandra s. "alfredschmidti" was confirmed to be a junior synonym of S. s. bernardezi. Previously disputed subspecies, like S. s. "molleri" and S. s. "hispanica", correspond to separated lineages but are affected by admixture with other lineages. Further newly identified candidate subspecies in S. salamandra included a southern lineage within S. s. wer-neri and a western lineage within S. s. bernardezi. Finally, we re-evaluate the status of recognized subspecies in Salamandra, based on evidence from multiple delimitation criteria. Given that the evolutionary history could not be resolved for all subspecies, we highlight taxa within Salamandra that warrant further molecular examination and taxonomic revision, notably within the S. s. gallaica/"molleri"/bejarae complex. This study illustrates the impact of hybridization in phylogenetic analyses and its downstream effects in the identification of conservation units and their naming in the Linnean classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutionary causes behind the development of taste discs (TDs), recognized as the only gustatory organs in metamorphosed Batrachia (Caudata and Anura), have yet to be determined. Taste buds (TBs) serve as the gustatory organs in aquatic batrachian larvae, as well as in both larval and adult caecilians (Gymnophiona) inhabiting either aquatic environments or moist terrestrial habitats. We describe the morphology of gustatory organs of adult crocodile newts (Tylototriton cf. verrucosus , Salamandridae, Caudata). Crocodile newts are semi-aquatic and exhibit increased specialization towards an aquatic feeding, distinguishing it from most members of the subfamily Pleurodelinae. Our findings confirm that TDs serve as the gustatory organs in adult T. cf. verrucosus , similarly to many batrachians. We also determined the density and sizes of TDs' sensory zones on the tongue and palate of T. cf. verrucosus , which differs from Batrachia. In terms of micro-morphology, two types of gustatory cells (GCs) were identified in the gustatory epithelium of T. cf. verrucosus. Our literature analysis suggests that TDs were larger in anurans compared to caudate amphibians, but were also larger in aquatic/semi-aquatic than in terrestrial anurans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For at least two decades, European amphibians have been affected by the ‘salamander plague’, an emerging infectious disease caused by the invasive chytrid skin fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) that originated from Asia. Resulting dramatic declines are well known from the European Fire Salamander, while the impact of Bsal on other European amphibians in the wild is less clear. We here focus on the Northern Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus) in Germany. This species is susceptible to Bsal and strictly protected under Annex II of the EC Habitats Directive. While T. cristatus is declining in the Bsal-hotspot Germany, it remains to be answered if the salamander plague is one of the leading drivers. By asking five key questions we review the available information with the goal of providing a baseline for further research. In two investigated newt communities, Bsal-prevalence was found to be considerably high, with 75–89% of newts being infected, reaching the highest peaks in spring. Later in the year, some T. cristatus were apparently able to clear their Bsal infection, even when individual infection load was previously high. Although we observed mortality of infected specimens and declines in populations with Bsal, declines are also seen outside known Bsal regions. Thus, it appears that the Bsal epidemic is not exclusively responsible for the species’ current status. With this, Bsal poses a yet poorly-understood threat to Northern Crested Newt survival, making further research on pathogen/host interactions and long-term survival indispensable to fulfil our legal responsibility of conserving this emblematic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides immediate effects, early nutritional conditions also have an impact on the entire life history of individuals. We tracked a cohort of captive fire salamanders that experienced only during their early larval phase, either rich or poor nutritional conditions, and thereafter intermediate standard conditions for almost 10 years. We measured on a regular basis, their morphometric variables, noted behavioural and colouration developments, and monitored their survival. While deficits in body mass and colouration from initially poorly raised individuals vanished in adults, differences in size in comparison to initially richly raised larvae remained throughout life. Behaviour at adulthood did not differ any further from that during early conditions, nevertheless it tended to be consistent in certain exploratory traits over several years. After almost ten years, the overall survival rate was about 50%, but so far, no effect of early living conditions on subsequent survival became apparent. Taken together, our long-term study on the effects of early nutritional conditions on fire salamanders revealed interesting insights into the life trajectory of these animals. Immediate effects from early nutritional conditions were found in almost all aspects of behaviour and physiology. The majority of effects are compensated within the lifetimes of individuals, apparently without detectable costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As amphibians with pronounced biphasic lifestyle, crested newts are dependent on available ponds throughout their breeding season, but data on parameters that influence their abundance and activity is largely lacking. In the present study, we tested the possible effects of five parameters (air and water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, acidity and oxidative reduction potential) on newt populations from adjacent ponds across two years. Although pond size was different (small vs large), both ponds were temporary, and funnel traps were set each week from the beginning of March until the drying of the ponds. Parameters were measured twice per week (i.e., in the evening and in the following morning) and were checked against the total number of captured newts. A portion of the captured newts was measured and weighted in order to compare newts from both ponds by body condition index (BCI). In addition, cotton swabs were used to collect skin secretion from some of the captured newts, which were tested for the presence of alkaloids. Expectedly, temperature had a pronounced effect on newt activity in both ponds, but levels of dissolved oxygen and oxidative reduction potential had no effect. Acidity was only relevant when higher daily amplitudes were registered, and in that case, it had a negative effect on newt activity. Overall, the large pond presented more stable conditions with male and female newts having a higher BCI compared to those from the small ponds. Although no alkaloids were found in the skin secretions, some of their possible precursors (sterol compounds) were detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors play vital roles in determining the range of organisms and application of selective pressures that drive their evolution. Investigation of how these ecological factors influence the diversification of species has long been a point of interest among ecologists. In this study, we used climate-based ecological niche models to project the suitable distributions of four main clades of Japanese fire-bellied newt Cynops pyrrhogaster at the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), Mid-Holocene (MH), and the present. Then we tested hypotheses regarding ecological niche diversification and the processes of diversification among these clades. The potential distribution of the Northern clade encompassed the Tohoku and Kanto districts, along with the northeastern Chubu district. The Central clade had a potential distribution across the Chubu and Kinki districts, and northeastern Chugoku district. The range of the Western clade was projected to encompass Kyushu, Shikoku, the southern Kinki region, and western Chugoku. Finally, the projected distribution of the Southern clade was limited to the southern Kyushu district. The lack of equivalent niches among the tested pairs indicated the absence of ecological interchangeability among the clades. The results of a similarity test supported significant parapatric divergence of the Northern and Central clades from the remaining clades. On the other hand, the Western and Southern clades probably underwent divergence through an allopatric process. Our paleomodels suggest that the distribution of C. pyrrhogaster may have been reduced and fragmented along the coastal regions during the LGM. The distribution models for the MH estimated a suitable area larger than for the LGM, but smaller than predicted by the current distribution. Our findings serve as a warning that the potential distributions of species could be significantly influenced by future climate change. • Ecological niche modeling was employed to predict the suitable distribution of the primary clades of Cynops pyrrhogaster. • The main clades of C. pyrrhogaster probably underwent divergence through either parapatric or allopatric processes. • The historical distribution of C. pyrrhogaster might have experienced reduction and fragmentation. • Climate changes could have a substantial impact on the distribution of C. pyrrhogaster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fragmented population of alpine salamanders from the Dinaric Alps belongs to a distinct evolutionary lineage known as Salamandra atra prenjensis. However, the phylogenetic relationships within this lineage are unknown since previous studies did not comprehensively include Dinaric population fragments. In this study, we use six microsat ellite loci and two mtDNA markers to examine the evolutionary relationships and genetic structure in several isolated fragments of alpine salamanders that are well spread along the Dinarides. We discovered that during Pleistocene glaci ations, S. atra persisted in at least two Dinaric refugia: an old one in the Prenj mountain, and a more recent one in Gorski Kotar, whereas there is evidence of colonization for the populations of the Čvrsnica and Prokletije moun tains. The results revealed that mountain Prenj was probably the main diversification center of alpine salamanders in the Dinarides. In addition, to provide a state-of-the-art review of the evolutionary history of the species, we also included available sequences of S. atra from the entire distribution range; we discuss the results from a conservation perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fully terrestrial lifestyles have evolved in a lineage of salamanders living since the Oligocene in the Western Palaearctic that adaptively radiated in morphology, ecology and reproductive modes. I analyse the relationships between body size and shape, and climate and reproductive mode in true terrestrial salamanders of the family Salamandridae. Principal component analyses were carried out on bioclimatic and morphologic data and used to reconstruct the diversification of these along the evolutionary timeline of this lineage. Additionally, a phylogenetic generalized least squares regression was performed in order to test the effect of climate and reproductive mode on their morphologic diversification. Western Palearctic salamanders experienced a strong disparity between small and elongated forms early during their evolution, and short-bodied species exhibit large size variation. Body elongation in the Salamandridae seems to be linked to an adaptation to semifossorial habits and is currently restricted to a narrow range of climatic conditions, which is in contrast to the other terrestrial species. Within this latter group, large species exclusively live at the southernmost edge of the geographic range of true terrestrial salamanders. Thus, Bergmann's rule is not adhered to by true salamanders, since larger species live in hot climates. The ancestral oviparous mode of reproduction in the Salamandridae could be maintained in elongated salamanders due to their body shapes not posing constraints, whereas the largest sized short-bodied species have developed larviparism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual shape dimorphism (SShD) is still a neglected research topic, likely because SShD is often very subtle. Since shape differences between the sexes are difficult to detect by applying traditional morphometrics, only recentlyemerged morphometric methodologies such as geometric morphometrics (GM) have highlighted their significance in evolutionary and morphology research. Here we provide an analysis of a three-dimensional morphometric data set of the cranial and, for the first time in a salamander, pelvic osteology of the small terrestrial spectacled salamander Salamandrina perspicillata. We also compare our GM results with prior results achieved via traditional linear morphometrics on the same species. Male and female salamanders differed both in cranial and pelvic girdle shape but not in absolute size. The shape but not size differences revealed by GM were congruent with the traditional morphometrics. We discuss intersexual shape differences in an evolutionary context and compare the features of both methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual shape dimorphism (SShD) is still a neglected research topic, likely because SShD is often very subtle. Since shape differences between the sexes are difficult to detect by applying traditional morphometrics, only recentlyemerged morphometric methodologies such as geometric morphometrics (GM) have highlighted their significance in evolutionary and morphology research. Here we provide an analysis of a three-dimensional morphometric data set of the cranial and, for the first time in a salamander, pelvic osteology of the small terrestrial spectacled salamander Salamandrina perspicillata. We also compare our GM results with prior results achieved via traditional linear morphometrics on the same species. Male and female salamanders differed both in cranial and pelvic girdle shape but not in absolute size. The shape but not size differences revealed by GM were congruent with the traditional morphometrics. We discuss intersexual shape differences in an evolutionary context and compare the features of both methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new locality for Triturus ivanbureschi is recorded in the inner part of western Anatolia. Morphological variation in a series of the thirteen newt specimens is also presented and morphological characteristics of the specimens compared with the previous studies in western Anatolia, Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accounts in the zoological literature commonly state that the European cave-dwelling "olm," Proteus anguinus, can reproduce "facultatively" -- switching between oviparity and viviparity according to environmental circumstances. This paper evaluates the widespread allegations of viviparity in this salamander species, tracing their origins to ambiguous reports from more than a century ago. The sole basis for detailed claims for "facultative viviparity" lies with an unreliable (and potentially fraudulent) report that fails to meet minimal scientific standards. The means by which these claims have prevailed and spread reveals the risks of uncritical acceptance of uncorroborated, unreferenced assertions as "common knowledge." In the absence of trustworthy evidence to the contrary, P. anguinus should be considered as entirely oviparous like its North American confamilials. Given recent demonstration of oviparity in a putatively live-bearing Hydromantes, definitive evidence of viviparity in urodeles is restricted to a single clade of the family Salamandridae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphological observations (LM, TEM, SEM) of olfactory organs were conducted on three representatives of the family Salamandridae which differ in post-metamorphic habitat: the terrestrial fire salamander Salamandra salamandra , the semiaquatic alpine newt Ichthyosaura alpestris and the semiaquatic Himalayan newt Tylototriton verrucosus which exhibit increasing specialization towards life in water. We demonstrated variability in proportional size and shape of the main olfactory chamber (MOC), as well as in the degree of development of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) among the three species. In the fire salamander, the olfactory sensory epithelium was distributed throughout the MOC, while in the alpine and Himalayan newt the olfactory sensory epithelium was organized in strips. The presence of two types of olfactory receptor neurons (ciliated receptor neurons, microvillar receptor neurons) was confirmed in olfactory organs of all examined species. For the first time in amphibians, a subtype of ciliated receptor neuron – the giant neuron (rod-shape neuron), was detected in the MOC of all three salamandrids. The olfactory epithelium also consists of ciliated supporting cells and secretory supporting cells. The presence of goblet cells, mucociliary epithelial cells and squamous epithelial cells was demonstrated in the olfactory organs of all examined species. Our results indicate that the olfactory organs of salamandrids may differ in size, shape and distribution of olfactory epithelium depending on habitat type during the post-metamorphic stages of ontogeny. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amphibian skin has been studied for many decades, especially the metamorphic changes in the skin of frogs. Less attention has been paid to salamander skin. Here, we describe changes in the skin structure during postembryonic development in a salamandrid species, the Balkan crested newt Triturus ivanbureschi. Using traditional histological techniques we examined the skin in the trunk region of three premetamorphic larval stages (hatchling, mid larval and late larval) and two postmetamorphic stages (juvenile, just after metamorphosis, and adult). In larval stages, skin consists only of the epidermis, which gradually develops from the single epithelial cell layer in hatchlings, to a stratified epidermis with gland nests and characteristic Leydig cells at the late larval stage. During metamorphosis, Leydig cells disappear, and the dermal layer develops. In postmetamorphic stages, skin is differentiated on stratified epidermis and the dermis with well-developed glands. Three types of glands were observed in the skin of the postmetamorphic stages: mucous, granular and mixed. Gland composition appears to be stage- and sex-specific, with juveniles and adult female being more similar to each other. In juveniles and adult female, there are a similar proportion of glands in both dorsal and ventral skin, whereas in adult male granular glands dominated the dorsal skin, while mixed glands dominated the ventral skin. Our results provide a baseline for future comparative research of skin anatomy in salamanders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new population of Lyciasalamandra atifi is presented from Ürünlü village, Ibradı district, based on fieldwork conducted in March 2015. After morphological and statistical investigation we conclude that the Ürünlü population has a morphology similar to that of Lyciasalamandra atifi veithi from Dikmen village, Akseki district. We also uncover the Manavgat river locality that could not be confirmed by previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the distribution, ecology and conservation status of the Syrian urodeles Salamandra infraimmaculata and Ommatotriton vittatus. Salamandra infraimmaculata was found at six localities and co-occurred with O. vittatus at three localities including clear streams or springs. The distribution model of infraimmaculata shows that the distribution of this species is nearly entirely shaped by precipitation in the coldest quarter. It also informs that the rarity of suitable surface waters is the main reason for the supposed scarcity of this species in northwestern Syria.

We report 17 specimens of the Lycian salamander Lyciasalamandra antalyana, endemic to Turkey from Burdur province, in the western Mediterranean region of Anatolia. Previously all known localities for L. antalyana were in Antalya province. These new records extend the known distribution area of the species to Burdur province in Turkey. These new specimens were compared with L. antalyana specimens from some other known localities (Hurma and Yağca populations) in terms of morphological and serological features. According to coloration and metric characters, our specimens can be included in L. antalyana. This paper represents a considerable range extension for this species, 32 km air distance to the north-east and reports L. antalyana from Burdur province for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the variation in the size of erythrocytes in the blood of Neurergus kaiseri and Neurergus microspilotus from Iran. It state that the two microorganism living in different environment show variations in their nucleus also despite exhibiting close relationship with other. It further states that the erythrocytes were more elongated with broader nucleus in Neurergus kaiseri and erythrocytes were smaller in Neurergus microspilotus.

Vertebrates exhibit different degrees and modes of parental care. Among Amphibia, most families are known to perform some form of parental care, but parental care behaviours in Salamandridae (82 species) are extremely rare (only three species). We report an egg-guarding behaviour in the Italian endemic, Salamandrina perspicillata (a semi-terrestrial species with aquatic oviposition), against caddisfly larvae (Halesus appenninus). Egg guarding includes generation of water currents using the tail, and pushing, and shoving to drive the predator away from the egg clutch. Parental care in Salamandrina is considered as a facultative behavioural trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of the Lycian Salamander, Lyciasalamandra irfani n. sp. is described and its relation with similar previously known taxa is discussed. The new species characterized by having rather darkly coloured head part and also an aubergine reddish brown ground colour on dorsum with irregularly scattered white flecks. It originates from Göynük Canyon (Antalya) in southwestern Anatolia. At present, the distribution is limited to its type locality. Some information is added in regard to its habitat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Adults and deutonymphs of a new water mite species of the genus Hygrobates Koch, 1837 (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Hygrobatidae) were found to parasitize the Hong Kong Newt, Paramesotriton hongkongensis Myers and Leviton, 1962 (Amphibia, Caudata, Salamandridae), endemic to Hong Kong and coastal areas of Guangdong Province: Hygrobates aloisii sp. nov. Males and females, as well as deutonymphs and larvae are described. A new subgenus –Lurchibates subgen. nov. – is defined to accommodate the species of the Hygrobates salamandrarum-group. The parasite–host association, infestation rate, attachment sites and the impact of mite infestation on the newts behaviour and body condition are investigated. These ecological aspects of the parasite–host association between freshwater mites and newts are examined for the first time in detail in their natural habitat. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We examined Uludağ population of Triturus karelinii, which have not been investigated extensively, in terms of morphometrics measurements, ratios, features of coloration pattern. The study was carried out between April and May 2006 and a total of 43 individuals (2 juveniles, 16♂♂, 25 ♀♀) were measured. Mean total body size is 98.795 mm (87.78 - 109.81) for juveniles, 109.209 mm (89.07 - 125.12) for males, and 122.328 mm (90.35 - 156.50) for females. Sexual dimorphism was observed between sexes. Females were larger than males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The feeding of three newt species from western Romania is different in the aquatic period regarding both the composition and the time needed. Thus, Mesotriton alpestris spends shorter time in the water compared to Triturus cristatus and Lissotriton vulgaris, having the weakest feeding habit in this environment. This is probably a consequence of its relationship with mountainous and harsher climate areas that shortens its aquatic environment period, which also affects the species in a lower altitude habitat. The difference in the food of the three species results from their different sizes and hunting territories. L. vulgaris mainly hunts near puddle banks, in areas with lower and warmer water and the other two species hunt near the bottom, in the deeper areas. The crested newts have the longest aquatic period and the highest affiliation for hunting in this habitat. This species consumes larger sized preys while the common newts consume numerous reduced sized preys, having an intensive feeding and high food diversity. Meanwhile, differences between the food ingested by male and female individuals are not significant in any newt species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, we examined 7B2 (secretogranin V)-like immunoreactivity (IR) in the Japanese red-bellied newt (Cynops pyrrhogaster) pituitary. Results showed that the pars nervosa was filled with immunoreactive granules. In the pars intermedia, all melanotrophs showed 7B2-IR. In the pars distalis, immunoreactive cells were dispersed, and the 7B2-immunoreactive cells were also immunopositive for the β-subunit of bullfrog luteinizing hormone (fLHβ). 7B2-IR co-localized with fLHβ-IR in the same secretory granules. Our results suggest that 7B2 may participate in the secretion processes of gonadotropins in the pars distalis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Lissotriton montandoni (Boulenger, 1880) has been identified further west than was previously known, in Iezer Mountains in Southern Romania. The westward limit of the species is situated in the Târgului River basin, which is tributary to Argeş River. The absence of the species further west in the Iezer or Făgăraş Mountains may best be explained by glaciation. Thus, the species may have had a glacial refugium near Iezer Mountain and subsequently recolonised the region east and north-eastwards with the warming of the climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Danube crested newt, Triturus dobrogicus, was known to be distributed in the Pannonian Basin, along the lower Danube and from the Danube Delta to the Dnepr Delta. Based on the discovery of three specimens in the collection of the "Grigore Antipa" National Museum of Natural History, Bucharest, Romania, we report a new record of Triturus dobrogicus from Lake Durankulak. This location in the north-east of Bulgaria, the Black Sea littoral region, is far outside the previously known range, and therefore establishes a new south-eastern limit for the distribution of this species. The possibility of introgressive hybridization with Triturus karelinii is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which describes the occurrence of a Far Eastern species Rhabdias tokyoensis (Nematoda: Rhabdiasidae) in European captive-bred swordtail newts or Cynops ensicauda (Amphibia: Salamandridae). It says that the amphibians lungworm infections are a major cause of die offs in private collections and four species of the family Rhabdiasidae are known to happen within the order Caudata. It mentions that pathologic examination was performed using a dissecting microscope. Results show that the predominant Rhabdias spp. in Europe is R. bufonis, which is known to invade anuran hosts.

Copyright of Zoologische Garten is the property of Verlag Natur & Wissenschaft and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: Two new water mite species of the genus Hygrobates Koch, 1837 (Acari, Hydrachnidia, Hygrobatidae) were found to live parasitic on newts of the genus Paramesotriton Chang, 1935 (Amphibia, Caudata, Salamandridae) from Vietnam and Laos: Hygrobates forcipifer sp. nov. and H. ancistrophorus sp. nov. The H. salamandrarum-group is defined, that now includes three species from Southeast Asia. Males and females of both new species are described, as well as larvae and deutonymphs of the Vietnamese species. These data provide the first record of males, nymphs and larvae of the species-group. The systematic position of the group, as well as the parasite–host association and the lifecycle of the species are discussed. Furthermore, the character states of the striking mouthparts, particularly modified as an adaptation for penetrating the amphibian skin, the genital skeleton and the larval morphology are examined. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Teratologies are frequent among vertebrates, but with differing prevalence among groups. For instance, cases of bicephaly are extremely scarce in amphibians, in contrast with other groups, like reptiles. Here we report the first case of bicephaly in Lissotriton boscai. The anomaly is a consequence of the duplication of the skeleton axis and the subsequent development of most of the cephalic structures in each axis, with heads fused at the level of the cranial post-otic structures. Despite its young age and small size, the larva presents an advanced stage of development. The low frequency of cases of bicephaly among amphibians can be a consequence of high mortality rates in early stages, but it could also reflect differences in the developmental properties between vertebrate lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report is the first observation on parturition in Lyciasalamandra atifi. We report data on a female of L. atifi from Cebireis Mountain (Cebel-i Reis, Alanya, Antalya) giving birth. In our field studies in Alanya province, we captured two males and a female. They were brought to the laboratory and kept in a terrarium for a short period on November 4, 2011. The female (SVL= 75.92 mm, TL= 150.11 mm) gave birth to two completely metamorphosed juveniles (SVL= 39.12 mm, 39.38 mm, TL= 77.53 mm, 77.78 mm) on November 5, 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During a monitoring survey in Lake Sülüklü (Western Anatolia, Turkey), I captured 2 paedomorphic Lissotriton vulgaris ssp. females on 10 September 2010. The individuals were brought to the laboratory and kept in aquarium. I recorded both individuals switched to the metamorphic form in 22 days. This morph switching observation is the firstly recorded from the Turkish populations of L. vulgaris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]