Santeetlah Dusky Salamander

Description

The Santeetlah Dusky Salamander, Desmognathus santeetlah, occurs in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky and Unicoi Mountains of east Tennessee.  A medium-sized salamander (2.5 to 4.0 inches in length) with a greenish-brown dorsum. Some specimens have a subdued pattern, while others have small red spots enclosed by dark borders. A light yellow wash on the belly, under limbs, and tail. Also, has a yellow line from the eye to the angle of the jaw. Tails are moderately keeled.

Similar Species: Imitator Salamanders have dark or black bellies. Spotted Dusky Salamanders have a brighter and bolder pattern.

Habitat: Found along small streams flowing through high elevation forests and on wet rock faces.

Diet: Small, aquatic invertebrates.

Breeding information: Females lay and brood an average of 17-20 eggs under moss, on top of rotting logs, or in the soil very close to streams.

Status in Tennessee: This appears to be common in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which contains a significant portion of their population. They may be vulnerable to effects from acid precipitation. Also, it may be vulnerable to mining and timber harvesting outside of the park.

Best places to see in Tennessee: Higher elevation small streams in the Great Smoky Mountains.