Ozark zigzag salamander
A species of Woodland salamanders Scientific name : Plethodon angusticlavius Genus : Woodland salamanders
Ozark zigzag salamander, A species of Woodland salamanders
Scientific name: Plethodon angusticlavius
Genus: Woodland salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Stanley Trauth , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Ozark zigzag salamander (Plethodon angusticlavius) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae endemic to the United States. It is one of 55 species in the genus] Plethodon. Its natural habitats are temperate forests, freshwater springs, rocky areas, and caves. It is threatened by habitat loss.
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
The diet of ozark zigzag salamander primarily consists of small invertebrates. A significant portion of its food intake is made up of ants, beetles, and other arthropods that it actively forages for in its forested habitat.
Appearance
Ozark zigzag salamander is a small salamander with a slender, elongated body and smooth skin. It predominates with dark brown to almost black coloration, adorned by a characteristic narrow, longitudinal stripe running down its back, usually golden or reddish-orange. The gender or age of the creature doesn't significantly affect these features. Its tail is rounded and slightly shorter than its body, which is typically used for quick, whip-like defensive actions.
Behavior
Ozark zigzag salamander is a nocturnal, terrestrial animal that largely remains hidden under leaves and rocks during the day. It is a solitary creature, displaying territorial behaviors, with males aggressively defending their area. Known for its breeding behavior, it lays eggs in moist environments, which both sexes guard fiercely. Its dark pigmentation provides effective camouflage in its forest habitats.
Population
Stable
Photo By Stanley Trauth , used under CC-BY-SA-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Genus
Woodland salamanders Species
Ozark zigzag salamander