The variation of Desmognathus ochrophaeus (Mountain Dusky Salamander)

All sympatric forms of Desmognathus ochrophaeus in western North Carolina. 

Defining characters:

-naso-labial groove

-hind legs larger than front

-band running from posterior of eye to posterior of jaw

-round tail

 

Dark-bellied form

Dark bellied with orange tail (juvenile)
dark bellied with orange tail (adult)

Red-backed form

Mottled form

Pale form


Larval pattern