plethodont
Definition
Noun: 1. A type of lungless salamander: A plethodont is a salamander belonging to the family Plethodontidae, characterized by the absence of lungs. These amphibians breathe primarily through their skin and the lining of the mouth. They typically lay their eggs on land in moist environments and have a fully terrestrial life cycle, rarely entering water.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The red-backed salamander is a common plethodont found in North American forests.
- Biologists study plethodonts to understand terrestrial adaptation in amphibians.
- Unlike many amphibians, a plethodont does not have an aquatic larval stage.
Advanced Usage
- As a taxonomic term: The term is used scientifically to refer to any member of the family Plethodontidae.
- With over 250 species, Plethodontidae is the largest family of salamanders, and every member is a plethodont.
Variants and Related Words
- Plethodontid (noun/adjective): A synonym for "plethodont"; also used as an adjective to describe characteristics of this family.
- The plethodontid salamanders exhibit a wide range of body sizes.
Synonyms
- Lungless salamander: A descriptive synonym highlighting the defining physiological trait.
Noun
-
mostly terrestrial salamanders that breathe through their thin moist skin; lay eggs in moist places on land; rarely enter water
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