Cryptotriton monzoni explained

Cryptotriton monzoni is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to Guatemala and known only from near its type locality, Cerro del Mono near La Unión, Zacapa Department. The specific name monzoni honors José Monzón, a Guatemalan entomologist who helped the authors with the fieldwork. Common name Monzon's hidden salamander has been coined for it.

Description

The holotype is an adult female measuring 22mm in snout–vent length. The tail length is 23mm. The snout is broadly rounded and the eyes are protuberant. The head is just slightly wider than the neck. The parotoid glands are weakly developed. The limbs are relatively long. Both the fingers and the toes are about moderately extensively webbed and have sub-digital pads. The dorsum is brown and has bluish flecks. The iris is copper.

Habitat and conservation

The type locality of Cryptotriton monzoni is a cloud forest 1570m (5,150feet) above sea level. The holotype was found in a bromeliad about three metres above the forest floor.

Cryptotriton monzoni is apparently a rare species. Its threatened by habitat loss caused by logging and agricultural encroachment. Chytridiomycosis might also be a threat (a specimen of Bolitoglossa conanti was infected at the type locality).