About Batrachoseps gavilanensis Jockusch, Yanev & Wake, 2001
Nomenclature and Classification
The Gabilan Mountains slender salamander, scientifically named Batrachoseps gavilanensis, is a species of salamander belonging to the family Plethodontidae.
Distribution Range
It is endemic to California, United States, and is distributed along the state's Central Coast region, ranging from Santa Cruz to northern Kern County.
Habitat and Behavior
This salamander inhabits redwood forests, evergreen forests, chaparral, and California oak woodland, and it burrows in soil and forest litter.
Size
The species reaches a maximum total length of 16.5 centimeters, which includes its long tail.
Coloration
Its base color is gray, with brown and black overlying coloration, white speckling along its sides, and most individuals have a brownish dorsal stripe bordered by black dots.
Taxonomic History
In 2001, this species and several other native California salamanders were formally described as new separate species after the Batrachoseps pacificus species complex was split based on results from phylogenetic analysis.
