Shovel-nosed Salamander, Desmognathus marmoratus

The Shovel-nose Salamander is found in drainages of the Blue Ridge Mountains north of the Little Tennessee River.  A large species (3.5 to 5.0 inches in length) with a black, brown, or gray back is typically marked with two rows of irregular yellowish to grayish blotches. The tail is laterally compressed and strongly keeled above. The Head is flattened and wedge-shaped.

Similar Species: Distinguished from Black-bellied Salamander by dark gray belly with lighter middle.

Habitat: Lives in clear, cool, well-oxygenated streams at elevations of 1000-5500 ft.

Diet: Mainly consists of larval or nymphal stages of aquatic insects, particularly mayfly and caddis fly larvae.

Breeding information: Females deposit 20-65 eggs in spring or summer to the underside of rocks in flowing water and remain with them until hatching. Hatching occurs in August and September.

Status in Tennessee: Appears to be common within its range. Sensitive to heavily silted and polluted streams.

Fun Facts:

• Shovel-nosed Salamanders were exploited as fish bait in some areas during the mid-twentieth century; however, they appear no longer important to the industry.

Best places to see in Tennessee: They are common in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park above 1000 ft.