Atretochoana - Amphibians That Have a Unique Shape

There must be something unique and rare in the various types of flora and fauna. Indeed you are curious and want to know more about the unique facts of fauna or flora. Or don't you ever meet one of these types? Immediately see Mina's summary of the unique, rare fauna or flora points below.

At a first, glance, if you look at the fauna of the Atrechoana species, many think this animal is a snake or a giant worm. This animal, with a length of around 70 cm, is named Atretochoana eiselti. It is an amphibian animal and can only be found along the Amazon River in South America.

Atretochoana eiselti was first discovered in the Madeira River in Rondonia, Brazil. When it was found in November 2011, the animal was discovered by a worker repairing the dam. The shape grabs attention because the tip is like male genitalia.

Atretochoana Unique Facts

1. Not including the type of snake

Although the shape of this animal is very similar to a snake and its physical appearance is very similar to the male genitalia, it turns out that this animal is an amphibian animal.

2. There needs to be a clear understanding of how Atretochoana survives.

As animals that do not have lungs, there are challenges for scientists. Scientists question how these amphibians breathe because they are in warm water and contain little oxygen.

3. This amphibian is not a burrowing animal like Caecilian.

This amphibian animal also has several relatives, such as salamanders and tetrapods, aquatic creatures. Therefore, the scientific community believes that Atretochoana is also an aquatic animal.

4. Considered a strong swimmer

Based on speculation after witnessing Atretochoana on the surface of the Amazon and Madeira rivers, this animal is believed to have excellent swimming abilities.

5. This animal lacks the additional features standard in other similar life forms.

The sight of this one amphibian animal is entirely wrong. However, these animals can find food, mates, and shelter by relying on a sensitive sense of smell.

6. Not yet known for sure the food consumed by Atretochoana

Scientists only think that because this animal is a type of Caecilian, it is likely that its diet is small fish, worms, and other aquatic invertebrates because more research needs to be done to examine this one amphibian animal.

How? Interesting right? Let's discuss Atretochoana in the comments column and share this article with all your friends so that it's not just you who knows. Greetings from Mina!

Image source: Image of Atretochoana Eiselti | commons.wikimedia.org