description Southern Dusky Salamander Overview
The Southern Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus auriculatus) is a lungless amphibian belonging to the family Plethodontidae. It inhabits streams, swamps, and muddy wetlands across the Atlantic and Gulf coastal plains, with a geographic range extending from Virginia to eastern Texas. This species is typically dark brown or black, often featuring faint speckling or a rust-colored dorsal stripe, and relies on its moist terrestrial environment to forage on small invertebrates.
help Southern Dusky Salamander FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Southern Dusky Salamander?
The species is Desmognathus auriculatus, a lungless salamander in the family Plethodontidae. Virginia wildlife authorities also use the name Holbrook's Southern Dusky Salamander for this species. [Virginia DWR](https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/information/southern-dusky-salamander/)
Where does Southern Dusky Salamander live?
It uses slow, muddy streams, swamps, and wet leaf litter across the southeastern Coastal Plain. Its reported range extends from southeastern Virginia through parts of the Gulf Coastal Plain to eastern Texas, although local populations and names can vary. [Virginia Herpetological Society](https://virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com/amphibians/salamanders/southern-dusky-salamander/index.php)
How can I identify one?
Adults can be brown to black with one or two rows of white spots, a laterally compressed tail, and a light stripe from each eye toward the jaw. Virginia DWR gives a maximum size of about 6.5 inches. [Virginia DWR](https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/information/southern-dusky-salamander/)
How does it reproduce?
Females lay roughly 9 to 20 eggs in cavities near water and remain with the nest until the eggs hatch in fall. The young complete metamorphosis the following spring, and the species is mainly active at night. [Virginia DWR](https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/information/southern-dusky-salamander/)
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