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Description: Southern Dusky Salamanders are mid-sized
-- 3-5 in. (7.5-12.5 cm) - fairly stout salamander with
back legs slightly larger than front. A row of white spots,
or "portholes," runs along each side, posterior
to front legs. The tail is slightly flattened. This species
is variable in color but is generally dark brown to black,
sometimes with a lighter patch running down the back. The underside
is often flecked with white dots. This species is very similar
in appearance to the closely-related Northern and Spotted Dusky
Salamanders (D. fuscus and D. conanti). These species
are so similar in appearance that range is usually the best
way to tell them apart.
Range and Habitat: Southern Dusky Salamanders are found
throughout the Coastal Plain of the southeastern US, but are absent
from peninsular Florida. They are found in mucky areas, in or
near slow-moving and stagnant streams, cypress ponds, swamps,
or pools in floodplains. They are often found under cover such
as branches, logs, or rocks.
Habits: Southern Dusky Salamanders seldom stray far from
water and feed mostly on aquatic invertebrates. Breeding behavior
occurs from September-October. Females lay from 9-20 eggs under
logs, rocks, or leaf litter and females sometimes protect the
eggs. Eggs hatch in early fall and undergo metamorphosis the following
spring.
Conservation Status: Although common and not protected
in our region, this species is thought to be declining in North
Carolina. Future research will determine the causes of such declines,
but it is likely that habitat alteration, particularly siltation
and channelization of streams is to blame.
Account Author: Glenn Thomas, University of Georgia -
edited by J.D. Willson
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