The Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) at Chemnitz Zoo died unexpectedly on Monday 31 August, aged 31. It had been part of the zoo for more than three decades. As this was the last animal of this species at Chemnitz Zoo, the keeping of Chinese giant salamanders at the zoo will cease for the time being. However, the conditions under which a giant salamander could once again be kept at Chemnitz Zoo are currently being assessed.
Investigations by the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (Leibniz-IZW) have revealed that the cause of death was an intestinal embolism. Given the clinical picture and the associated prognosis, there was no realistic prospect of successful treatment.
Although the loss is regrettable for the zoo and its visitors, the animal was in very good physical condition right up until its sudden death. Its advanced age and the stable state of health it maintained over many years are testament to the expert care and continuous attention it received at Chemnitz Zoo.
The scientific investigation carried out by the Leibniz-IZW also offers the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the health and potential diseases of this rare and endangered amphibian species. In the long term, such insights can help to further develop the husbandry and veterinary care of giant salamanders.
It is particularly encouraging that the Leibniz-IZW was able to collect and preserve sperm from the male specimen. This genetic material may prove significant for future breeding efforts and could potentially contribute to the conservation of this critically endangered species. The preservation of genetic material is a key component of modern breeding and species conservation programmes, particularly for rare animal species.
The Chinese giant salamander is the second-largest amphibian species in the world and is under severe threat in its natural habitat. Populations in China have declined sharply in recent decades, partly due to the intensive harvesting of the animals for human consumption. The conservation of this species therefore also presents zoological institutions with particular challenges.
Opening hours (April to September)
| Chemnitz Zoo: | daily, | 9 am to 7 pm |
| Oberrabenstein Wildlife Park: | daily, | 9 am to 6 pm |
Last admission and ticket office closes one hour before closing time