Kiamichi Slimy Salamander

Plethodon kiamichi

Reptiles & AmphibiansIn the app

A somewhat thick-bodied salamander with moderately thick legs and a flattened head. It has a rounded tail that's the same length as the body, which averages 5-7.5 cm from…

Kiamichi Slimy Salamander illustration

How to identify

A somewhat thick-bodied salamander with moderately thick legs and a flattened head. It has a rounded tail that's the same length as the body, which averages 5-7.5 cm from snout to vent. Its skin is dark grey to black with white spots that are most prevalent on the sides of the body. Ventrum is dark with few white spots, and the throat is pale.

Range

A small range on the east central border of Oklahoma, and slightly into adjacent areas of Arkansas.

Habitat

Inhabits moist woodlands and ravines at higher elevations, often hiding under rocks and logs.

Variations

Slight variation in darkness of background coloration, as well as density of white spots.

Similar species

Could be mistaken for various other *Plethodon* salamanders that have black skin with white spots, including the western slimy salamander (*Plethodon albagula*) and Sequoyah slimy salamander (*Plethodon sequoyah*) which may be found nearby.

Name and etymology

Kiamichi: Belonging to the kiamichi Mountains, Oklahoma.

At a glance

Range

A small range on the east central border of Oklahoma, and slightly into adjacent areas of Arkansas.

Habitat

Inhabits moist woodlands and ravines at higher elevations, often hiding under rocks and logs.

Guide

Reptiles and Amphibians of North America

Range map

Range map for Kiamichi Slimy Salamander

Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap

Sources & further reading