Fig 1
Fig 2
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Family : ICHTHYOPHIIDAE
Species : Ichthyophis spp.
Total Length : This specimen 30 cm.
Caecilians are a separate
group of amphibians classed under the order Apoda. Their key identifiable
feature is their apparent lack of external limbs, though degenerate limbs
are present in most species.
They are wormlike, burrowing animals, with smooth, moist skin which appears
narrowly segmented. The eyes are small and covered with skin, and their
visual perception is limited to determining between light and dark. They are
able to take in oxygen both through their skin and lungs.
They possess a short tail, and the cloaca (the common reproductory and
intestinal opening) is close to the end of the body. Two small sensory
tentacles are present on the head which probably assist in locating their
food source - burrowing invertebrates. The genus Ichthyophis are
egg-laying.
Their subterranean lifestyle means they are rarely encountered except,
perhaps, after heavy rainfall or in areas of recently disturbed soil.
Six families of Caecilians are recognised, ranging through Africa, South
America and Southeast Asia. The family Ichthyophiidae are widespread in
Southeast Asia, comprising 40 species or so.
Figs 1 and 2 : This roadkill specimen was found after a localised
landslip at Fraser's Hill, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia. It measured
around 30 cm in length.
Fig 3 : Female example killed on a road passing through lowland habitat
in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Note the presence of a clutch of eggs extruded
from its damaged body. A total of 7 roadkill caecilians were seen on the
same day along a 3 km section of road during the early part of the rainy
season in June 2023. Photo thanks to Derek Clark.
References :
Lim, K.P., Lim, L.K.,1992. A Guide to the Amphibians & Reptiles of
Singapore. Singapore Science Centre.
Manthey U., Grossmann W., 1997. Amphibien und Reptilien Sudostasiens.
Natur und Tier - Verlag.
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