Zoo breeds amphibian for first time

KEEPERS at Chester Zoo’s Aquarium have managed to breed caecilians for the first time in the zoo’s history.

The aquatic species in question are dark grey creatures and are the ‘forgotten amphibians’ – as most people do not even know they exist.

Nine of the tiny worm-like babies are now in the zoo’s Aquarium and will go on show as soon as they are large enough.

This species of caecilian originates from South America and lives in fresh water. They grow to be 45 to 55 cm in length as adults.
Mike Crumpler, Aquarium Team Leader at Chester Zoo, said:”If asked what an amphibian is, most people would answer frogs or toads or maybe newts and salamanders. Caecilians, of which there are about 170 species, are very much the forgotten amphibians.”