Beddome’s Caecilian — printable fact sheet

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Beddome’s Caecilian

Ichthyophis beddomei

Beddome’s Caecilian is a limbless, burrowing amphibian native to the Western Ghats of southern India. Its elongated, worm-like body is adapted for a subterranean lifestyle, with smooth, segmented skin that is typically dark brown to bluish-black in color. This secretive animal s…

Classification

Amphibian

Family

Ichthyophiidae

Habitat

Tropical moist forest floors and underground in the Western Ghats

Diet

Carnivore

Conservation status

Data Deficient

Lifespan

4-7 years (estimated)

Weight

10-20 grams

Scientific name

Ichthyophis beddomei

Did you know?

Unlike most amphibians, Beddome’s Caecilian gives birth to live young that are already fully formed, skipping the typical tadpole stage.
Caecilians are one of the least-known groups of amphibians due to their secretive, burrowing habits. Beddome’s Caecilian has tiny, vestigial eyes covered by skin, making it nearly blind. This species can absorb oxygen through its skin, which is essential for its underground existence.

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