What is a salamander and body covering?

Salamanders are amphibians that belong to the order Urodela. They are characterized by their long, slender bodies and smooth, moist skin. Salamanders have a wide variety of body coverings, including scales, scutes, and skin glands.

* Scales are small, overlapping plates that cover the body of a salamander. Scales are made of keratin, the same protein that makes up human fingernails. They provide protection from abrasion, dehydration, and UV radiation.

* Scutes are larger, bony plates that cover the head and back of a salamander. Scutes provide protection from predators and from the elements.

* Skin glands secrete a variety of substances, including mucus, toxins, and pheromones. Mucus helps to keep the skin moist and prevents dehydration. Toxins can deter predators and protect the salamander from infection. Pheromones are used for communication between salamanders.

The body covering of a salamander is an important adaptation that helps them to survive in their environment.