Cheat mountain salamander
A species of Woodland salamanders Scientific name : Plethodon nettingi Genus : Woodland salamanders
Cheat mountain salamander, A species of Woodland salamanders
Scientific name: Plethodon nettingi
Genus: Woodland salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By jacobogre , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The CMS is smallish, similar in size to the red-backed salamander (3 to 4¾ inches, or 7½ to 12 cm), but is distinct in its black or dark brown dorsum (back) which is boldly marked with numerous small brassy, silver or white flecks. It lacks a dorsal stripe. The belly is dark gray to black. The tail is about the same length as its body, which has 17 to 19 costal grooves (vertical grooves along its sides). 
General Info
Lifespan
6-8 years
Diet
Cheat mountain salamander, otherwise known as Southern Zigzag Salamanders, are largely insectivorous, feeding primarily on small arthropods including spiders, mites, and springtails, supplemented occasionally by various larvae and worms.
Appearance
Cheat mountain salamander is a small, slender salamander with slick skin. It exhibits a vibrant yellowish-orange color that tends to darken towards its sides. Its belly showcases a more subdued gray coloration. The salamander is equipped with a short tail and distinct, stout legs. No significant differences in appearance are noted between different ages or genders.
Behavior
Cheat mountain salamander is a nocturnal and solitary species, known for its unique territorial behavior. It communicates territory effectively using chemical signals, with both males and females defending individual territories intensely. Often found beneath rocks or logs during the day, cheat mountain salamander emerges at night to feed, primarily on small invertebrates. Adapted to cool, moist forests, cheat mountain salamander retreats underground during dry periods as a survival mechanism.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Genus
Woodland salamanders Species
Cheat mountain salamander 
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