Ouachita Streambed Salamander

Range

This species is found in the Slunger creek valley in Lake Catherine State Park, Arkansas.

Habitats

This species dwells in pine-hardwood forests which includes mountains and valley, streams. Small arthropods, spiders, and make up its diet. Fertilization is internal with the males depositing a spermatophore which the females pick with their cloaca. Eggs are laid under rocks and the females protect the eggs until they hatch.

Identification

The Oucahita streambed salamander has a total length that ranges from 35-48mm. It is yellowish-brown in color this species compared to other salamanders has sunken eyes on a compressed head. The dorsum of the species is yellow in color and pigmented with brown melanophores that form irregular blotches on the dorsal and lateral surfaces. Its body is more elongate with the dorsum lacking two lateral stripes. Eurycea subfluvicola has fewer iridophores in its irises and a reduction in the color makes its eyes principally black.

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