A medium-sized salamander of Appalachian streams. Multiple distinct populations.

Native status: Native to Appalachian Mountains

§ Quick facts

SizeTotal length 8–11 cm
Weight2–6 g
LifespanWild 6–10 years
OrderCaudata
FamilyPlethodontidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Allegheny Mountain dusky salamander is a species in the Plethodontidae family native to eastern North America.

Source: Wikipedia — Allegheny Mountain dusky salamander Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small dusky salamander; brown to gray-brown body with mottled pattern; whitish belly; relatively short tail.

Similar species. Other Desmognathus species (multiple in range; expert ID often needed).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small invertebrates (springtails, mites, ants, small beetles).

Behavior. Small lungless salamander of cool Appalachian streams and seeps. Like all dusky salamanders, breathes entirely through skin and mouth lining. Restricted to higher elevations of the central Appalachians (WV, VA, KY, TN).

§ Range

Appalachian Mountains

§ Habitat

Streams and seeps

§ Threats

Stream degradation, climate change.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the allegheny mountain dusky salamander is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Appalachian forest conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • Davidson College Herpetology Lab
  • IUCN Red List 2014