Shenandoah salamander
A species of Woodland salamanders Scientific name : Plethodon shenandoah Genus : Woodland salamanders
Shenandoah salamander, A species of Woodland salamanders
Scientific name: Plethodon shenandoah
Genus: Woodland salamanders
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Brian Gratwicke , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Shenandoah salamander (Plethodon shenandoah) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to the United States and the state of Virginia. It is only known from North facing talus slopes on three mountain tops inside the Shenandoah National Park.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Shenandoah salamander is a carnivorous species, primarily feeding on small invertebrates. Preying predominantly on arthropods like spiders and beetles, this creature displays an opportunistic feeding behavior, adjusting its diet based on availability.
Appearance
Shenandoah salamander is a small amphibian, possessing a slender body and smooth skin. It exhibits a main coloration of dark black, blue or brown, often with white speckling. The limbs are shorter, complementing its terrestrial lifestyle. It does not possess any remarkable appendages such as wings or horns. Both genders and all age groups share the same essential appearance, with no significant differences.
Behavior
Shenandoah salamander exhibits secretive, terrestrial, and nocturnal behaviors. It remains solitary, with limited social interaction. For survival, shenandoah salamander relies on its exceptional camouflage in its forested habitat, and is not known for territorial marking practices. Being lungless, it breathes through its moist skin, necessitating a humid, cool environment.
Population
Stable
Photo By Brian Gratwicke , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Lungless salamanders Genus
Woodland salamanders Species
Shenandoah salamander