A lungless terrestrial salamander endemic to the Pacific Coast of North America, known for its complex evolutionary ring distribution through California and Oregon mountain ranges.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Temperate forest floors, woodland areas, and moist forest understories in coastal and mountain regions of western United States, particularly California, ranging from sea level to 3,000 meters elevation
Ecological Role
Critical in forest ecosystem as predator of invertebrates, controlling insect populations and serving as indicator species for forest health and biodiversity
Morphology
SKIN COATMoist, permeable skin with multiple color variations including brown, reddish, and mottled patterns
LIMBS WINGSFour relatively short limbs with five digits, adapted for terrestrial locomotion
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes, distinct nasolabial grooves, capable of chemosensory perception
BODY STRUCTURESlender salamander, 7-14 cm in total length, with smooth skin and elongated body
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Chris Brown
