Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency - Salamanders of TN

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency - Salamanders of TN: The northern zigzag salamander (Plethodon dorsalis, Family: Plethodontidae - pictured) is one of our most abundant species and is found throughout the eastern two-thirds of the state. The similar looking, closely related southern zigzag salamander (Plethodon ventralis, Family: Plethodontidae - not pictured) has a very small range along the eastern border of Tennessee. But as these two were just recently separated into two species, more research needs to be conducted to determine the true range of the southern zigzag salamander. Both of these salamanders are relatively small (6 – 11 cm) and exist in two color morphs (phases). They may be a uniform brownish-gray color (lead morph) or a dark base color with an orange or red zigzag pattern (striped morph) extending down the back that straightens out when it reaches the base of the tail. Both color morphs may have light metallic flecks on the back and sides; the belly is mottled with tiny black, white and orange speckles. These salamanders prefer moist forested slopes, caves and rocky hillsides. Females use underground retreats in which to lay and brood their eggs.