Streamside Salamander
Ambystoma barbouri
Description
Almost identical to the smallmouth salamander. Dark gray or bluish to black with a small head, mouth and short limbs. 13 – 15 costal grooves on sides. Lichen like markings on sides and tail of some specimens. Others are almost all dark grey or black.
Stats
Size
4 – 5 ½ inches
Status
Species of Special Concern
Similar Species
Jefferson salamander and Smallmouth salamander
Diet
Earthworms and other invertebrates
Habitat
A species of hilly uplands with small rocky creeks
Reproduction
This species is unique in its breeding habits. It's the only Ambystoma species that breeds in rocky streams as opposed to ponds. Mating occurs in early spring when rain and temperatures reach 55 degrees. Breeding may occur December through March. Mating takes place in rocky streams. Up to 300 eggs in a jellylike flat mass are deposited beneath flat stones in the water. Larvae have external gills.
