Unlike frogs and toads that hop or salamanders that scurry, caecilians like this one slither like snakes or worms through the soil. But what really sets the São Tomé caecilian apart is where it lives—it’s only found on this one small island in the Gulf of Guinea, making it an island exclusive or “endemic” species. It spends most of its life underground, making it a master of hide-and-seek in the leaf litter and soft soil of São Tomé’s humid forests. Its body is long, smooth, and dark-colored, perfect for slipping through the dirt unnoticed.

What makes the São Tomé caecilian so unique compared to its relatives is its isolation. While other caecilians can be found across tropical regions in South America, Africa, and Asia, this one evolved separately on its island home, developing traits that help it thrive in its specific environment. For example, its eyes are tiny and hidden under the skin, because seeing isn’t much help when you live underground. Instead, it uses special tentacle-like sensors on its head to “taste” and feel its surroundings, helping it find prey like termites and earthworms. Some scientists believe this species may even have slightly better-developed tentacles than its mainland cousins, which would be a neat adaptation to its unique environment.

Unlike other amphibians that lay eggs in ponds or streams, caecilians have a whole different strategy. Some, including the São Tomé species, give birth to live young that grow inside the mother—almost like a tiny reptilian kangaroo! Even weirder, baby caecilians have been known to eat the outer skin layer of their mother for nutrients—don’t worry, she grows it back, and it’s completely normal for them!

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

São Tomé & Príncipe

2019

Sâo Tomé