A medium-sized salamander endemic to the Cumberland Plateau.

Native status: Native to Cumberland Plateau

§ Quick facts

SizeTotal length 9–13 cm
Weight3–8 g
LifespanWild 8–12 years
OrderCaudata
FamilyPlethodontidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Cumberland Plateau salamander is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to the Cumberland Plateau, the southeastern United States. Its natural habitat is temperate forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.

Source: Wikipedia — Cumberland Plateau salamander Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Slim dark salamander; brown body with subtle reddish or coppery flecks; pale belly.

Similar species. Other Plethodon species (expert ID required).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small invertebrates.

Behavior. Endemic to Cumberland Plateau forests (KY, TN). Among the most range-restricted US salamanders.

§ Range

Kentucky, Tennessee

§ Habitat

Mountain forests

§ Threats

Forest loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the cumberland plateau salamander is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support Cumberland Plateau conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

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