Discover The Black-Bellied Slender Salamander: An Enigmatic Eastern U.s. Forest Amphibian
The black-bellied slender salamander (Plethodon serratus) is a fascinating amphibian found in eastern US forests. Its long, slender body and smooth skin distinguish it, along with its striking coloration: a vibrant orange or yellow dorsal stripe and a black or gray underside. An insectivorous predator, it hunts nocturnally under logs and leaf litter. Despite its “least concern” conservation status, habitat loss and fragmentation pose potential threats. This salamander’s unique adaptations and ecological role make it an important part of forest ecosystems.