Caecilian
Caecilian
Caecilian (/siːˈsɪliən/), from the Latin word caecus, meaning "blind", refers to a group of limbless, serpentine amphibians. They are mostly found in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Etymology
The term Caecilian originates from the Latin word caecus, which translates to "blind". This refers to the small or sometimes absent eyes that are a characteristic feature of these creatures.
Characteristics
Caecilians are unique among amphibians due to their limbless, serpentine bodies. They range in size from a few inches to over a meter in length. Their skin is smooth and usually dark in color, often with a series of bright rings or stripes. Despite their name, not all caecilians are blind; many species have small eyes, although these are often covered by skin or bone and are likely only capable of distinguishing light from dark.
Habitat and Distribution
Caecilians are found primarily in the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They are adapted to a burrowing lifestyle and are often found in damp soil, under leaf litter, or in the burrows of other animals.
Behavior and Diet
Caecilians are carnivorous, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates such as worms, termites, and slugs. They are known for their secretive, burrowing lifestyle and are rarely seen above ground.
Reproduction
Most species of caecilians are oviparous, laying eggs in a moist environment. Some species, however, are viviparous, giving birth to live young.
Conservation Status
Many species of caecilians are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. However, due to their secretive nature and the difficulty of studying them in the wild, the conservation status of many species is unknown.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Caecilian
- Wikipedia's article - Caecilian
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