TaxonHub

Northwestern salamander

Ambystoma gracile

A medium-sized terrestrial salamander native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, characterized by its robust body and complex life cycle involving aquatic and terrestrial phases.

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ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Moist forest environments, including coniferous and mixed woodland areas, near streams, ponds, and wetlands in coastal regions from southern Alaska to northern California

Ecological Role

Critical component of forest ecosystem food webs, serving as both predator of small invertebrates and prey for larger vertebrates; plays significant role in nutrient cycling and biodiversity maintenance

Morphology

SKIN COAT Smooth, moist skin with mucous glands; permeable membrane facilitating cutaneous respiration
LIMBS WINGS Four robust limbs with five digits each; strong muscular legs adapted for terrestrial and aquatic locomotion
HEAD SENSORY Broad, flattened head with well-developed eyes and external gills during larval stage; pronounced nasolabial grooves for chemical sensing
BODY STRUCTURE Stout body with broad head, typically 10-20 cm in total length; dark brown to black coloration with occasional lighter mottling

Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: USGS

ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Ambystomatidae

Ambystoma maculatum

Ambystoma mavortium

Ambystoma opacum