1.
salamander
An amphibian with a long body, tail, and short legs, living in cool, damp environments. The giant salamander of Japan is a protected national treasure.
Literally "sansho-pepper fish," reportedly from the smell the animal gives off when handled. Lives in cool, clear streams; the species 大山椒魚 (Japanese giant salamander) is the world's largest amphibian and a famous protected species.
Common collocations
Similar words
- イモリ: newt — smaller; spends more time in water; common in Japan as アカハライモリ
- ヤモリ: gecko — reptile, not an amphibian; despite the similar name and look, ヤモリ lives on walls and is unrelated to salamanders