Cannibalism, among Other Solutions of Adaption, in Habitats Where Food Is Not Available for Salamandra infraimmaculata Larvae Diet in Breeding Places in Xeric Habitats

Abstract

The present study examines the inherent flexibility in the feeding responses of S. infraimmaculata larvae to various breeding places. In addition, the study examines the hypothesis that in dry conditions, the water breeding places are the limiting factor for the survival and completion of the life cycle of populations of S. infraimmaculata. In the breeding sites, the food for larvae is not available, and cannibalism is the specific adaptation for larvae to grow and complete metamorphosis. S. infraimmaculata larvae feed on various invertebrates in different habitats, and cannibalism involves the adaptation to breeding places where food is not available. The growth only by cannibalism as the only way to adapt to these habitats because no food is found in breeding places at the southern border of its distribution is described here for the first time, not only in salamanders but in other animals as well.