How do salamander larvae catch aquatic prey?

To catch aquatic prey, salamander larvae primarily utilize a gape-and-suck feeding method. In this process, the larva expands its throat—or gapes—to create suction that draws both water and prey into its opened mouth. Skin flaps located around the mouth help direct the movement of the water during this action. Once the prey is captured, the larvae use their well-developed teeth to hold and shred the food.1