This Reptile Uses Ribs As Weapon Against Predators
By: EjazUlHaqBhat
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The Spanish ribbed newt, also known as the Iberian ribbed newt, is known for its incredible defence mechanism
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When threatened, the newt rapidly rotates its ribs forward, increasing the angle between the ribs and its spine, allowing them to pierce through the skin
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It contains glands that secrete a toxic, milky substance which is injected into the predator when the ribs puncture the skin
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Visible orange warts on the newt's body often correspond to the position of the ribs, potentially serving as a warning signal to predators
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Once the danger has passed, it simply pops its ribs back inside its body
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Despite puncturing its own skin, the newt can quickly heal due to its efficient immune system and ability to regenerate tissue
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Spanish ribbed newts are amphibians found in Spain, Portugal and Morocco, usually in mud or among stones in ponds and lakes
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The Spanish ribbed newt can grow up to 12 inches in length with a broad head, small eyes, and a long tail