Aneides hardii (Taylor, 1941)

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

The Sacramento Mountain salamander, with the scientific name Aneides hardii, is a species of salamander belonging to the family Plethodontidae.

Endemic Range and Conservation Threat

It is endemic to mountainous regions of New Mexico in the United States, and its natural habitat is temperate forest, where the species is threatened by habitat loss.

Specific Distribution Areas in New Mexico

This salamander is found in three separate mountainous areas of New Mexico: the Capitan Mountains, the Sierra Blanca range, and the Sacramento Mountains.

Elevation Range

It occurs at elevations of at least 2,400 metres (7,900 ft) above sea level in mixed forests.

Slope and Vegetation Habitat

It is typically found on north-facing or east-facing slopes among Douglas fir, Engelmann spruce, and white fir, often with an understory of Rocky Mountain maple.

Microhabitat Shelter Sites

It commonly hides in leaf litter or rotten logs, or under rocks, fallen branches, or vegetation.

Above Tree Line Habitat

Above the tree line, it can be found in stony areas that host mosses and lichens.

Sympatric Salamander Species

The only other salamander species that occurs in this area is the tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum), which is more of a lowland species that prefers grasslands, savannahs, and woodland edges.