Description: The giant salamander, scientifically known as Andrias davidianus, is one of the largest salamander species in the world, native to East Asia, particularly China and parts of Japan. This amphibian can reach lengths of up to 1.8 meters and weigh over 60 kilograms, making it a true giant among salamanders. Its body is robust and elongated, with dark brown to gray skin that features lighter spots. The giant salamander is an aquatic animal that inhabits cold, clean rivers and lakes, where it primarily feeds on fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals. Despite its imposing size, it is a stealthy predator that uses its camouflage to hunt. This amphibian has remarkable longevity, living over 50 years under suitable conditions. The giant salamander is also known for its regeneration ability, allowing it to recover lost limbs. However, its population has drastically declined in recent decades due to habitat loss, water pollution, and overexploitation, leading to its classification as an endangered species. Its presence in the ecosystem is crucial, as it acts as an indicator of the environmental health of the water bodies it inhabits.
