Caudata, also known as Salamanders, constitute an order of amphibians characterized by their long tails, four legs, moist skin, and ability to regenerate lost body parts. They are found globally, excluding Antarctica, in a wide range of habitats such as forests, mountains, and bodies of water. Caudata is one of the three orders of amphibians, along with Anura (frogs and toads) and Gymnophiona (caecilians).
These creatures typically possess slender bodies that can vary greatly in size, ranging from a few centimeters to over a meter in length. They exist in a remarkable variety of colors and patterns, adapting to blend with their surroundings. The skin of caudates is permeable, which allows them to breathe through it, and it is often covered in mucus to retain moisture.
One of the most distinctive features of caudata is their remarkable ability to regenerate lost limbs or organs. If a predator severs a salamander's tail, it can grow it back, along with other damaged body parts, through a process called autotomy. This regenerative ability is facilitated by the presence of stem cells in their bodies.
Salamanders are predominantly carnivorous, feeding on insects, worms, small invertebrates, and occasionally small vertebrates. They capture prey using their long tongues and strong jaws. Many species are also nocturnal, preferring to forage for food during the night while hiding during the day.
Due to their unique characteristics, caudata have long captivated the interest of biologists and amphibian enthusiasts alike, studying their behavior, physiology, and evolutionary adaptations.
