fire salamander

Known for its striking colors and its role as an indicator of healthy ecosystems, the fire salamander is a fascinating amphibian that lives in moist forests and waterways. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the fire salamander's biology and lifestyle and emphasizes the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

fire salamander Products

Profile: fire salamander

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Amphibians (Amphibia)
    • Order: Urodela
    • Family: Salamandridae (true salamanders)
    • Genus: Salamandra
    • Species: S. salamandra (fire salamander)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 15-25 cm
    • Weight: 50-150 g
    • Special features: Black, shiny skin with striking yellow or orange spots, strong build, long tail and four limbs.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, especially in temperate zones
    • Habitat: Moist forests, mountainous regions, near bodies of water such as streams and ponds; requires shady and moist places.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Carnivore
    • Typical food: insects, spiders, snails, small vertebrates and other invertebrates.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Breeding season: spring to summer
    • Reproduction: Eggs are laid in water or moist substrates; the larvae develop in water.
    • Lifestyle: Mainly nocturnal, hiding under stones, leaves or in burrows during the day.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 20 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Not threatened, but threatened by habitat loss, pollution and disease.
    • Protection measures: preservation and protection of habitats, control of diseases and prevention of road traffic casualties.