Plethodon caddoensis Pope & Pope, 1951

Taxonomic Classification

The Caddo Mountain salamander (Plethodon caddoensis) is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae.

Geographic Distribution

It is endemic to Arkansas in the south-central United States, and is only known from the Caddo Mountains, a subsection of the Ouachita Mountains.

Primary Habitat

This salamander is abundant in and near talus slopes and other rocky habitats, especially on north-facing slopes covered by mature, mesic forests.

Secondary Habitat

It can also occur in secondary growth, mixed deciduous forests.

Dry Season Behavior

When conditions are dry and hot, these salamanders retreat to underground shelters under shaded talus or in abandoned mines.

Population Abundance

The Caddo Mountain salamander is abundant across its limited geographic range.

Local Threats

It can be locally threatened by habitat loss and degradation.

Existing Protection

Most of its populations are located within Ouachita National Forest, which provides the species with some degree of protection.