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The Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) holds the title of the world’s largest amphibian, reaching over 1.8 m (≈6 ft) and weighing up to 140 lb.
- Scientific name: *Andrias davidianus*
- Maximum length: >1.8 m (≈6 ft)
- Maximum weight: up to 140 lb (≈64 kg)
- Habitat: Fast‑flowing rivers and streams in China
- Conservation: Critically endangered, intensive protection efforts
- All models state that the Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) is the largest amphibian.
- They agree on a maximum length of about 1.8 m (≈6 ft) and weight around 140 lb.
- Gemini mentions the South China giant salamander (Andrias sligoi) as a possible larger species, a point not covered by the other models.
World’s Largest Amphibian
Overview
The Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) is universally recognized as the largest living amphibian on Earth. Individuals can grow to more than 1.8 m (about six feet) in length and weigh up to 140 lb (≈64 kg)1. Its massive size, aquatic lifestyle, and ancient lineage have earned it the nickname “living fossil.”
Size & Weight
- Length: >1.8 m (≈6 ft)
- Weight: up to 140 lb (≈64 kg)
These dimensions make it the clear size leader among amphibians, surpassing all other salamanders and frogs.
Habitat & Distribution
- Geographic range: Endemic to mainland China, primarily inhabiting clear, fast‑flowing mountain streams and rivers2.
- Lifestyle: Fully aquatic; it spends its entire life in water, hiding under rocks and in crevices.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Protection efforts: Captive‑breeding programs, habitat restoration, and strict legal protections are in place across Chinese wildlife reserves2.
Taxonomic Note: South China Giant Salamander
Some recent discussions cite the South China giant salamander (Andrias sligoi) as potentially larger, with reports of individuals reaching 5.9 ft and weighing up to 143 lb7. However, the scientific community still regards Andrias davidianus as the widely accepted largest amphibian, and the South China species is relatively newly described and less well‑documented9.
Bottom Line
While the South China giant salamander may rival the Chinese giant salamander in size, the Chinese giant salamander remains the most widely recognized record holder for the title of the world’s largest amphibian.
Key Takeaways
- Andrias davidianus is the largest amphibian, exceeding 1.8 m and 140 lb.
- It is native to China’s river systems and faces critical endangerment.
- Ongoing research on Andrias sligoi adds nuance but does not overturn the prevailing consensus.