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Zigzag Salamander

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description Zigzag Salamander Overview

The zigzag salamander (Plethodon dorsalis) is a small, lungless amphibian native to the midland and eastern regions of the United States, with a geographic range extending from Indiana down through Alabama. It is anatomically distinguished by the characteristic wavy or zigzag-shaped reddish-orange stripe running along its dorsal midline, though this marking can occasionally be absent. As a woodland species, it resides under rocks, logs, and leaf litter in moist deciduous forest environments.

help Zigzag Salamander FAQ

What does the zigzag salamander look like?

The zigzag salamander (Plethodon dorsalis) is a small amphibian distinguished by a characteristic wavy or zigzag-shaped dorsal stripe down its back. Its coloration typically features a reddish-orange to grayish stripe contrasting against a darker base body color.

Where can the zigzag salamander be found?

This lungless amphibian is native to the midland and eastern regions of the United States. Its geographic range specifically extends from places like Indiana down through parts of Alabama.

How does the zigzag salamander breathe without lungs?

As a member of the family Plethodontidae, the zigzag salamander completely lacks lungs and respires directly through its moist skin. Because of this biological trait, it must live in constantly damp environments to prevent suffocation.

Where do zigzag salamanders lay their eggs?

Females lay their eggs in well-hidden, moist terrestrial locations such as underneath rotting logs or deep inside rocky crevices. Unlike many other amphibians, the eggs hatch directly into miniature terrestrial adults, completely skipping the aquatic larval stage.

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