Chinese Giant Salamander

Fascinating facts about the Chinese Giant Salamander

• Found in the cold rocky mountain streams of central China, the largest salamander on Earth can grow up to 1.8 metres long, as long as a tall man is tall, and weigh up to 30 kilograms, the same weight as a small dog. They can live up to 80 years in the wild. This long lifespan reveals how they've adapted to their slow-changing environment.
• In 2019, a study found that most Chinese Giant Salamanders in breeding programmes were actually hybrids, with 75% of them being a mix of the Chinese and Japanese species. This hybridization is a major threat to the conservation of the species. It shows how human intervention can unintentionally harm the very species we're trying to save.
• Chinese Giant Salamanders have a highly permeable skin that can absorb oxygen and water from their surroundings. They can even absorb nutrients through their skin, which helps supplement their diet of fish and crustaceans. This unusual skin is one reason they can thrive in low-oxygen environments, like the fast-flowing streams of central China.
• The Chinese Giant Salamander's population has declined by 80% over the past 30 years, mostly due to overcollection for food and traditional medicine. They're considered a luxury food item in some parts of China, with a single salamander selling for up to $1,000. This high demand has led to widespread poaching, making conservation efforts even more challenging.
• A 2020 survey found that only 50 wild Chinese Giant Salamanders remained in one of their last strongholds, a nature reserve in central China. The main reason for this decline is not just overhunting, but also habitat destruction due to dam construction and pollution. With only a few hundred individuals left in the wild, the species is on the brink of extinction, and urgent action is needed to protect its habitat and reduce demand for its meat.

At a glance

About the Chinese Giant Salamander

In the misty, primeval landscapes of China's mountainous regions, the Chinese Giant Salamander navigates its domain with a slow, deliberate grace, its sleek, mottled form undulating through the water like a living shadow. As it moves, its feathery gills wave gently, extracting oxygen from the currents, while its unblinking eyes survey the surroundings with an ancient, almost primeval wisdom. This majestic creature, one of the largest salamanders on the planet, is a poignant reminder of the fragility and beauty of a world that is rapidly disappearing, its very existence a testament to the enduring power of life in the face of adversity.

Discover more wildlife