Fire salamanders glow green and cyan under ultraviolet light, scientists find
Fluorescence traced to skin secretions that remain luminous for more than 24 hours; its purpose is still unknown
Fire salamanders, among Europe's most recognizable amphibians, possess an unexpected ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light, glowing in vivid green and cyan, new research has found. The glow is most pronounced on the yellow underside and along the sides, and comes from glands in the skin whose secretions can remain fluorescent for more than 24 hours after leaving the animal's body.