Identification
The Southern Two-lined Salamander is very similar in appearance to the Northern
Two-lined Salamander. They are small and slender with a broad yellow, greenish-yellow,
or tan stripe that extends from head to tail. The light dorsal stripe is bordered
by uneven black lines and is often marked with a row of dark spots or flecks.
The sides of the body are usually yellowish with some dark mottling, and the
belly is typically yellow. The best way to distinguish between the Southern
and Northern Two-lined Salamander is by geographic range. In addition, the Southern
Two-lined Salamander has 14 costal grooves along the sides of its body, as compared
to the Northern Two-lined Salamander’s 15-16.
Distribution and Status
Southern Two-lined Salamanders are distributed from southern West Virginia to
eastern Illinois and south into northern Florida and east Louisiana. There is
also an isolated colony in northeast Illinois. The Southern Two-lined Salamander
is absent from the Appalachians between northeastern Georgia through southern
Virginia. Instead, this area is home to a third subspecies of Two-lined Salamander,
the Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamander. In the Midwest, the Southern Two-lined
Salamander is found in Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana.
Ecology
Living close to flowing water, both in woodland and open areas, the Two-Lined
Salamander can be found under rocks, logs, or leaf mats. During winter months
individuals seek shelter and retreat underground.
Threats and Management Issues
Despite their ability to survive in a wider range of habitat than some salamanders,
the Southern Two-lined Salamander often falls victim to many animals, and is
sometimes used as bait by humans. While most populations are considered stable,
land alteration practices and pollution have the potential to cause population
declines.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499