Onychodactylus tsukubaensis, commonly known as Tsukuba clawed salamander, is a species of salamander endemic to Japan and belongs to the Hynobiidae family.[2] This species of salamander is currently considered to be critically endangered.[1]
The Tsukuba clawed salamander can be identified by its well-defined ochre dorsal stripe.[2][3] It has a dense speckled pattern throughout its body; the rest of its body color ranges from a grayish-brown to a dark gray.[3] They have an oval-shaped head with a rounded snout. This species shows little-to-no dimorphism between sexes.[3] It is noted to have a shorter tail than Onychodactylus japonicus.[3][2]
Distribution
The Tsukuba clawed salamander has a very small range. It prefers colder climates and higher elevations, primarily being found only in the upper half of the Tsukuba and Kaba mountain ranges in eastern Japan.[3][2] There are two known subpopulations, divided between the mountain ranges.[1] It is found 350m (1,150ft)above sea level.[2] It has been noted that this species of salamander may have the smallest distributional range of all salamanders endemic to Japan.[2] The total extent of occurrence is about 63km2 (24sqmi).[1]
Endangered
The IUCN Red List has listed the Tsukuba clawed salamander as critically endangered. Its population is declining, still facing a number of threats. One major threat was the collection for use in the pet trade.[2] This practice has become illegal in Japan since 2015, eliminating this threat to the population.[1] Other major threats include: mining, logging, roads, and pollution of water and air.[1] Although the Tsukuba clawed salamander is a protected species in Japan, it continues to suffer from habitat loss.[2][1]
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