Neurergus

Neurergus
Neurergus kaiseri
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Caudata
Family: Salamandridae
Genus: Neurergus
Cope, 1862

Neurergus is a genus of salamanders, more specifically newts, in the Salamandridae family. They are found in the Middle East (predominately in Turkey and Iran), and are bred in captivity for their bright colors. In nature, they inhabit streams and small rivers, and the surrounding forests or shrublands. All of the Neurergus are considered threatened species, primarily due to destruction of habitat.[1]

Morphology

Generally, Neurergus species are dark-colored (brown to black) above, with a pattern of white to yellow to orange spots and lines. On their ventral sides, the lighter color of their spots becomes a solid color. Like most salamanders, they have five toes on their hind feet.

Species

Studies have demonstrated the genus Neurergus is monophyletic.[2] It contains these species:

Notes

  1. ↑ 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, accessed 19 January 2009
  2. ↑ Steinfartz, S.; Hwang, U. W.; Tautz, D.; Öz, M. and Veith, M. (2002) "Molecular Phylogeny of the Salamandrid Genus Neurergus: Evidence for an Intrageneric Switch of Reproductive Biology" Amphibia-Reptilia 23: pp. 419-431, doi:10.1163/15685380260462338
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