Identification
The Western Slimy Salamander is one of thirteen genetically distinct species
of Slimy Salamanders that are collectively known as the “slimy salamander
complex.” The Western Slimy Salamander is blue or blue-black in color
and has many scattered white spots or flecks. Patterns are variable, and some
individuals may be completely black with very few white flecks, while others
may be heavily spotted on the sides. The belly and chin are black, and there
may also be white spots on the chin, and on the underside of the tail. Their
feet are typically gray and they have moderately large, bulging eyes. Adults
grow to lengths of 10.5-20.6 cm (4.1-8.1 in), and have 15-17 grooves on the
sides of the body (costal grooves).
Distribution and Status
The range of the Western Slimy Salamander extends from southeast Missouri through
much of Arkansas, and into eastern Oklahoma. Additional disjunct populations
can be found in southern Arkansas, and Texas. Within the Midwest, the Western
Slimy Salamander is found only in Missouri.
Ecology
Western Slimy Salamanders prefer moist, hilly forests, where they see shelter in a variety of ground cover including rotting logs or stumps, as well as under rocks, bark, and leaf litter. Winter is spent underground in the burrows of small animals, amongst root systems, or in deep crevices in rock outcrops. Slimy Salamanders defensively secrete a whitish sticky substance from their skin that makes them unappetizing to potential predators.
Threats and Management Issues
Moist woodlands with plenty of refuge sites, including logs and rock outcrops,
as well as natural ground debris are all important for the survival of the Western
Slimy Salamander. Because of this, intensive timber harvesting operations, as
well as the “cleaning-up” of down timber would prove detrimental
to this species.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Links to more information on the Western Slimy Salamander outside the Herp Center
University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
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