# Micro-CT Anatomy of the Vertebral Column of the Luristan Newt (Neurergus kaiseri)

## TL;DR

This study uses micro-CT scans to describe the spinal anatomy of the endangered Luristan newt without harming specimens.

## Contribution

Provides a non-invasive, detailed anatomical analysis of the vertebral column of Neurergus kaiseri using micro-CT.

## Key findings

- The Luristan newt has one cervical vertebra, 12 trunk vertebrae, one sacral vertebra, three caudosacral vertebrae, and 28 to 31 caudal vertebrae.
- Micro-CT scanning was successfully used to study the vertebral column without specimen harm.
- A complete and precise anatomical description of the species' vertebral column was achieved.

## Abstract

The Neurergus kaiseri is one of the native and endangered species of the Salamandridae family, which is restricted to the mountainous habitats of southern Lorestan and northern Khuzestan. The presence of this species in the environment and the risks surrounding the extinction and health of this species make it necessary to produce basic anatomical information. The present study investigated the typical morphological characteristics of normal, mature, and healthy Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) vertebral column using a micro-CT scan. The samples were entered into the micro-CT scan machine one by one in a ventral recumbency. The typical morphological characteristics of normal, mature, and healthy Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) vertebral column were examined. It was specified that the Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) has one cervical vertebra (atlas), 12 trunk vertebrae, one sacral vertebra, 3 caudosacral vertebrae, and 28 to 31 caudal vertebrae. This study presents a complete and precise description evaluation of Luristan newt (Neurergus kaiseri) vertebral column using a micro-CT scan. No specimen was killed, and anatomical studies were conducted through a micro-CT scan technique as an essential feature of the present study.