caecilian

/kiːsˈɪliən/

[noun] [adjective]

Caecilian

[NOUN]

a legless amphibian with an elongated body, smooth skin, and specialized adaptations for burrowing

synonyms : blindworm

What is a "caecilian"?

Caecilian is a limbless amphibian belonging to the order Gymnophiona. They are often mistaken for snakes or worms due to their elongated and cylindrical bodies. Unlike snakes, caecilians have distinct eyes and lack scales, possessing instead smooth, slimy skin. These fascinating creatures are primarily found in tropical regions, particularly in moist soils and freshwater habitats. Caecilians are highly adapted for burrowing, with specialized sensory tentacles on their heads to help them navigate and locate prey underground. They are known for their unique reproductive strategy, with some species giving birth to live young and others laying eggs. Despite their seemingly elusive nature, caecilians play a significant role in their ecosystems by controlling invertebrate populations and serving as prey for other animals.

caecilian

[ADJECTIVE]

of or relating to or belonging to the family Caeciliidae

Examples

1. Check out this caecilian!

2. In these species, young caecilians possess a unique set of teeth with the wonderfully gross purpose of tearing off pieces of their mother’s skin.

3. In fact, caecilians are the only ones known to do it.

4. This phallic fiend is actually a type of caecilian, which are a group of blind, snake-like amphibians that look more like worms than reptiles.