Crescent-nostriled Thorius
Thorius lunaris
Photo: Photo: (c) Maximiliano Monroy Sánchez, all rights reserved, uploaded by Maximiliano Monroy Sánchez
Overview
Thorius lunaris, commonly known as the crescent-nostriled thorius, is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to Pico de Orizaba, in Veracruz, Mexico, at elevations of 2,500–2,640 m (8,200–8,660 ft) asl. Its natural habitat is pine-oak forest where it occurs under the bark of stumps and fallen logs, in leaf-litter, and in piles of wood chips.
This was formerly very abundant species is now very rare. It is threatened by habitat loss caused by logging and expanding agriculture.
Thorius lunaris faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and logging activities in its montane cloud forest habitat. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes, while climate change poses additional risks by altering the specific temperature and humidity conditions required for its survival. Fungal diseases, including chytrid fungus, represent an emerging threat to this and other Central American salamander species.
Habitat
Thorius lunaris inhabits montane cloud forests at elevations between 1,800-2,400 meters in the Sierra Madre Oriental of Mexico. The species requires the specific microclimate conditions of these high-altitude forests, including consistent moisture, cool temperatures, and dense vegetation cover.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PLETHODONTIDAE
Threatened in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
Why is Crescent-nostriled Thorius classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Crescent-nostriled Thorius live?
What are the main threats to Crescent-nostriled Thorius?
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