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AH_Juvenile Olm (Proteus anguinus) - Slovenia_2554.jpg
Olm {Proteus anguinus} juvenile. A species of aquatic salamander and a true troglobite (living only in caves). Highly adapted to the cave environment, Olms generally lack skin pigmentation and are blind, with atrophied eyes. Note that juveniles, as seen here, have more prominent eye spots and pigmentaion, both of which are likely to fade with age. The species has advanced senses of taste, touch and smell as well as being able to detect weak electrical fields, allowing them to navigate the cave environment and locate their prey. They exhibit neoteny, meaning they retain larval characteristics into adulthood such as gills. Captive, Slovenia.