Imperial cave salamander

The imperial cave salamander, imperial salamander, odorous cave salamander, or scented cave salamander is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to Sardinia.

Habitat and conservation

Speleomantes imperialis inhabits humid rocky outcrops, caves, crevices, and forested areas near streams at elevations of above sea level. It lays a few terrestrial eggs that have direct development. While common within its limited range and not facing major threats, it can suffer localized habitat loss and illegal collection. It occurs in the National Park of the Gulf of Orosei and Gennargentu and the Monte Sette Fratelli Regional Park, probably also the Giara di Gesturi Regional Park.