A small, terrestrial salamander native to southeastern United States, characterized by its dusky coloration and adaptation to woodland and riparian habitats.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Moist forest floors, stream banks, and leaf litter in coastal plains and piedmont regions of southeastern United States, from southeastern Virginia to southern Georgia and Alabama.
Ecological Role
Key predator of invertebrates, contributes to forest floor ecosystem balance, serves as bioindicator of forest and stream ecosystem health
Morphology
SKIN COATSmooth, moist skin with dark brown to black base coloration, often with lighter mottling or irregular markings
LIMBS WINGSFour well-developed limbs with four toes on each foot, adapted for terrestrial and semi-aquatic locomotion
HEAD SENSORYRelatively large eyes, prominent parotoid glands behind eyes, sensitive chemosensory capabilities
BODY STRUCTURESlender, elongated body with rounded tail, typically 7-13 cm in total length
