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Red-backed salamander

Plethodon cinereus

Photo by Aaron_G
Published on Project Noah
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41.5076, -71.7162

Field Notes

Description:

The redback salamander is a small (5.7 to 10.0 centimeter) terrestrial salamander which usually lives in forested areas under rocks, logs, bark, and other debris. It is one of the most numerous salamanders throughout its range. The redback salamander exhibits color polymorphism and two color variations are common: the nominate 'redback' variety which has a red dorsal stripe that tapers towards the tail, as well as a darker variety known as the 'leadback phase' which lacks most or all of the red pigmentation. The redback phase is not always red but may actually be various other colors (e.g., stripe colored yellow, orange, white, or a rare erythristic morph, in which the body is completely red). Both morphs have a speckled black and white belly. (information from Wikipedia)

Habitat:

Woodland

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Photographed
PublishedFebruary 26, 2013

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