TaxonHub
Spotted salamander

Spotted salamander

Ambystoma maculatum

A medium-sized terrestrial salamander native to eastern North America, characterized by distinctive yellow spots on a dark background, belonging to the Ambystomatidae family.

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Spotted salamander
Spotted salamander
Spotted salamander
Spotted salamander
Spotted salamander
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Deciduous and mixed forests with proximity to woodland pools, streams, and vernal wetlands in northeastern United States and southeastern Canada

Ecological Role

Critical indicator species for forest ecosystem health, serving as predator and prey in complex food webs, controlling insect populations

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Dark blue-black or dark grey base coloration with bright yellow-orange irregular spots covering body and tail
  • LIMBS WINGS Four muscular limbs with five distinct digits, adapted for terrestrial and aquatic locomotion
  • HEAD SENSORY Broad, triangular head with prominent eyes, well-developed olfactory and chemosensory capabilities
  • BODY STRUCTURE Elongated body, typically 15-25 cm in total length, robust cylindrical shape with smooth, moist skin
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Bill Michalek
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Ambystomatidae