There are actually two species of giant salamanders – Chinese and Japanese.
The Chinese giant salamander is the largest and can weigh over 80 pounds and reach lengths of more than 5 feet long.
They inhabit clear, fast-moving water where oxygen is abundant. Since salamanders breathe through their skin, it is important to have adequate source of flowing water.
The Chinese giant salamander is the world’s oldest amphibian and can live for over 100 years.
These creatures prey on just about anything that fits in their mouth and will wait patiently below a current to gulp in unsuspecting fish, frogs, and even other salamanders.
The Japanese giant salamander averages around 4-5 feet long and inhabits a similar biome as its cousin. This species can secrete a mucus that smells like peppers to ward off predators. Scientists have recently discovered that it can be used to glue wounds together more effectively than medical glue.
The Japanese giant salamander earned its place in Japanese mythology as the Hanzaki or Kappa. This yokai was known in legend to have regenerative powers. If they were cut or harmed, they would regrow the missing limb.
Although it is myth that the giant salamander is a monster, salamanders do have regenerative abilities.
Bizarre Beasts 