Fern Bank Salamander

Range

Only found in central Texas living in springs and caves of the Blanco River watershed.

Habitats

Strictly aquatic species that lives at the bottom of natural spring-fed water bodies, hiding among rocks and other substrate.

Identification

This salamander is completely aquatic, retaining its external gills and tail fins throughout adulthood. It reaches 3-4 cm in snout to vent length, and is mostly grey with dark speckles all over and a row of small yellow spots on each dorsolateral line. It also has 2 indistinct dark lines on its face, running from each eye to the tip of the snout.

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