The regeneration of newt limbs deformed in nature

The regeneration of abnormal limbs from a wild newt population was examined. The abnormalities were: mirror symmetrical reduplications of digit parts, deformed wrists, or limbs with supernumerary digits. Normal regeneration resulted after amputation of the abnormal parts, regardless of the original deformity. The results suggest that the abnormalities are probably the result of local trauma to the limbs.