Range
The Eurycea neotenes are native to the United States especially the Edwards Plateau in Central Texas near Helotes Creek Springs in Bexar County.
Habitats
The Texas Salamander is adapted for flourishing in underground streams of caves that are relatively inaccessible. Breeding is suggested to be seasonal with the female taking the lead in initiating courtship. Its diet is based on what is more prominent in its aquatic environment including blind shrimps, snails, and amphipods.
Identification
They grow to between 2 to 4 inches in length. They have a predominantly brown color with yellow or brown mottles and yellow spots running down its back. They usually retain their juvenile features growing into adulthood with consistently slender bodies, short limbs, and conspicuous red external gills. It lives in caves with reduced vision. It has a large head with a flattened snout, equipped with vestigial eyes buried beneath the skin and has 12 coastal grooves.
Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians