Speckled Black Salamander

Range

Aneides flavipunctatus is a species of amphibian that inhabits moist and forested areas in the western lowlands of California, USA. It ranges from southern Humboldt County to northern Sonoma and Napa Counties, and can be found at elevations up to 1700 m.

Habitats

Aneides flavipunctatus prefers habitats with abundant cover, such as rocks, logs, soil, and talus slopes. It also occurs in meadows and burned areas. The annual precipitation in its range is more than 75 cm

Identification

Dorsum either black or black with small white flecks, larger white blotches, or yellow blotches. Can also have gray or green tinge to dorsum. Belly is black with a gray tinge. Female's head is noticeably smaller than the male's head. Does not have lungs; instead breathes through its skin and tissues in its mouth. Clutch size varies from 8-25 eggs that are held together by peduncles. Young develop fully while still enclosed in eggs and are fully developed when they hatch. Young look similar to adults with a solid black dorsum that can have green or gold elements. Yellow is apparent around the limbs.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians