Salamandra atra (Black Salamander), which is found in the Alps and the mountains of Central Europe, close to the snow-line, and up to an altitude of 3,000 metres.
Salamandra maculosa (Spotted Salamander, [fig. 121]), distributed throughout almost the whole of Europe, and also found in North Africa.
Triton cristatus (Crested Newt), likewise common all over Europe.
Triton marmoratus (Marbled Newt, [fig. 122]), which is met with in damp and dark places, in Portugal, Spain, South and Central France, and as far north as the Forest of Fontainebleau.
Cryptobranchus japonicus (Great Japanese Salamander, fig. 123), which often exceeds 1 metre in length, and has a clumsy body covered with large warts, and an enormous head, broad behind and flattened in front.
This giant salamander is now confined to a few provinces in the centre of Japan, between long. 34° and 36°, in damp, shady places, from 200 to 800 metres above sea-level. It is eaten by the Japanese, who also use it as a remedy for, or prophylactic against, contagious disorders. By nature it is extremely sluggish, but tries to bite when irritated, and then covers itself copiously with slime.
Fig. 121.—Salamandra maculosa (Europe and North Africa).
Fig. 122.—Triton marmoratus (male). (Europe.)