Proteus anguinus

Proteus anguinus is a blind salamander species endemic to the subterranean waters of the Dinaric Alps, spanning from Slovenia to Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is commonly known as the Olm or the European cave salamander.

Description

The Proteus anguinus is a troglodytic organism, adapted to life in complete darkness. It is characterized by its elongated body, reaching lengths of up to 30 cm, and its pale, almost translucent skin. The Olm's most notable feature is its lack of functional eyes, having evolved in the darkness of the cave systems.

Habitat

The Olm inhabits the karst cave systems of the Dinaric Alps, where it lives in the subterranean waters. These environments are characterized by their constant temperature, high humidity, and absence of light.

Diet

The diet of the Proteus anguinus consists mainly of small crustaceans, insects, and snails that inhabit the same subterranean waters. Due to the scarcity of food in its habitat, the Olm has evolved to have a slow metabolism and can survive without food for long periods.

Reproduction

The Proteus anguinus has a unique reproductive cycle. Females lay eggs in the water, which are then fertilized by the male. The eggs hatch into fully formed juvenile Olms, skipping the larval stage common in other salamander species.

Conservation

The Proteus anguinus is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to its limited distribution and threats to its habitat from pollution and climate change.

See also

• List of amphibians of Europe
• Cave animals