Bolitoglossa yucatana (Peters, 1882)

Common Names and Taxonomy

The Yucatán mushroomtongue salamander (scientific name Bolitoglossa yucatana) is also commonly called the Yucatán salamander. It is a member of the Plethodontidae salamander family.

Geographic Range

This species is found on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico and in extreme northern Belize, and its range may extend into Guatemala.

Natural Habitat Characteristics

Its natural habitats are lowland tropical forest and thorn forest located below 150 m (490 ft) above sea level. It also lives in disturbed habitats near villages.

Microhabitat and Behavior

It is mostly terrestrial, staying on the forest floor under surface debris and within sink holes, but it can also survive in arboreal bromeliads.

Conservation Threats

Habitat loss is the main threat to this species.

Protected Area Presence

It is present in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, as well as in the Shipstern Conservation & Management Area and Fireburn Nature Reserve in Belize.