Description

The Small-mouthed Salamander ranges throughout the state. Despite the large range, they are not often encountered and are a tracked species in the state. Habitat loss may be a factor in reduced range in Mississippi. Morphology consists of a gray or black body with silver or bluish flecks on sides. The head of this species is noticeably smaller than A. talpoideum, and the tails are significantly longer, as well as laterally compressed. These salamanders are winter/early spring breeders and make their way to fishless ephemeral ponds and other seasonal bodies of water to mate and lay eggs (Petranka, 1998).

Identifying Traits

• Small head and mouth
• Long, laterally compressed tail
• Often with silver or bluish flecking, can be unpatterned

Habitat

Forested wetlands and lowland ephemeral wetlands (Powell et al., 2016)

Behavior

Small-mouthed salamanders, like most mole salamanders, are rarely seen above ground outside of breeding seasons. They can occasionally be found under moist or rotting logs in areas they are prevalent.

Diet

Various small invertebrates