A small lungless salamander that's extremely sensitive to water quality — making them an excellent indicator species for stream health. Dusky salamander declines often signal pollution problems before fish notice.

Also called: Northern Dusky

Native status: Native; widespread in eastern North America

§ Quick facts

SizeAdult length 7–12 cm (2.8–4.7 in)
Weight2–8 g
LifespanWild 15+ years
OrderCaudata
FamilyPlethodontidae

§ Encyclopedia

Desmognathus fuscus is a species of amphibian in the family Plethodontidae. The species is commonly called the dusky salamander or northern dusky salamander to distinguish it from populations in the southern United States which form several distinct species, the southern dusky salamanders. The northern dusky salamander is the most widespread representative of its genus in Canada. It can be found in eastern North America from extreme eastern Canada in New Brunswick south to South Carolina. The size of the species' total population is unknown, but is assumed to easily exceed 100,000. The species' habitat differs somewhat geographically; dusky salamanders in the northern part of the range prefer rocky woodland streams, seepages, and springs, while those in the south favor floodplains, sloughs, and muddy places along upland streams. They are most common where water is running or trickling. They hide under various objects, such as leaves or rocks, either in or near water. Alternatively, they may enter burrows for protection. The dusky salamander lays its eggs close to water under moss or rocks, in logs, or in stream-bank cavities. The larval stage which follows is normally aquatic.

Source: Wikipedia — Desmognathus fuscus Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Slender dark salamander with brassy or yellow flecking on body.

Similar species. Other dusky salamanders (different markings). Brook Salamander (different head shape).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small invertebrates.

Behavior. Found in coniferous and mixed forests. Among the most cold-tolerant US salamanders.

§ Range

Eastern US and Canada from New Brunswick to Tennessee

§ Habitat

Cool, oxygenated streams; under rocks at stream edges

§ Threats

Sediment runoff from construction, road salt drift, mining-related water quality decline, climate-driven stream warming.

§ Conservation status

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

§ What helps

Reduce sediment runoff from construction. Maintain forested stream buffers. Support clean-water enforcement.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USGS ARMI
  • AmphibiaWeb
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2014