Our scientist has created 3D models of a rare cave salamander

Our scientist Markéta Tesařová used X-ray computed microtomography to create a virtual 3D atlas of the cave salamander, which will serve for further research of this rare amphibian.

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The cave salamander lives in complete darkness, is completely blind and moves using its vibration-sensitive auditory system. It is an endangered species and is most commonly found in the Dinaric karst caves in Slovenia, Croatia and Italy. It has evolved a number of unique morphological, physiological and behavioural mechanisms to be able to survive in absolute darkness and cold. Because it is protected, lives in inaccessible conditions and cannot be kept in a laboratory, it has remained a mystery to biologists. However, the online database of the Gigascience journal now offers a complete atlas of 3D models of the olm, including its developmental stages, which allows the researchers to thoroughly study this extraordinary creature and through – from its brain and cartilage to the complex olfactory, visual and reproductive systems.

You can read the full article here.

Link to the reportage in the series O vědě a vědcích: Macarát jeskynní (Česká televize) is here (only in CZ).