Haideotriton wallacei is an incredibly rare species of lizard that's also known as the Georgia Blind Lizard. It's a creature that has only been viewed by a limited number of people. Little is known about the Georgia Blind Lizard, as so few specimens have actually been observed by scientists.
Species Discovery
The Georgia Blind Salamander was originally discovered in a 200-foot well in Albany, Georgia in 1939. The state where the lizard was found lends itself to the common name of the species.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Some of the most notable features of the Georgia Bland Salamander are its lack of eyes and lack of skin pigment. Other distinguishing features of the species include external gills that are bright red in color, a finned tail and long legs. The maximum adult size of a Georgia Blind Salamander is three inches in length from head to tail. Georgia Blind Salamanders cannot evolve into a terrestrial state; they retain larval features for their entire lifespan.
Feeding Habits and Natural Predators
This species of lizard feeds mainly on ostracods and amphipods that can be found in its habitat. Other prey of the Georgia Blind Salamander includes beetles, copepods and isopods. The main predators of the Georgia Blind Salamander include freshwater eels, blind crayfish, Florida chubs and bullheads.
Reproduction
Georgia Blind Salamanders reproduce in aquatic conditions, though little is known about their actual reproductive habits. Scientists assume that these lizards court others of the species inside caves and sinkholes, where they then lay their eggs.
Location
Though it was discovered in Georgia, few Georgia Blind Salamanders are thought to exist in the state of Georgia. The majority of the species can be found in caves along the Georgia-Florida border, although some have also been found in the county of Decatur, Georgia.
Species and Habitat Conservation
Because so few specimens of the Georgia Blind Salamander exist, the species is protected in both Georgia and Florida. Some of their known habitats, such as the Marianna Caverns State Park, are protected wildlife habitats.
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