Southern Korean Salamander

A small, slender salamander typically measuring 3.5–5.0 inches (9–13 cm) in total length. Body is elongate and gracile with relatively short limbs. Dorsal coloration is dark brown to blackish-brown, often with a faint reddish or coppery vertebral stripe running along the midline from head to tail tip. The vertebral stripe, when present, is narrow and may be discontinuous. Dorsolateral stripes are absent or very faint. The head is small and somewhat flattened. Eyes are small and dark. Costal grooves are prominent, typically numbering 13–14 between the limbs. Dorsal surface is smooth to slightly granular. Tail is compressed laterally, approximately equal to or slightly shorter than snout-to-vent length. Ventral surface is lighter, ranging from pale brown to grayish, often with dark mottling or spots. A key diagnostic feature is the presence of small teeth in the vomers and premaxillae. Limbs are short and slender with distinct digits; front limbs bear 4 toes, hind limbs bear 5 toes. Primarily inhabits cool, forested mountain streams, seepage areas, and moist rocky habitats in upland regions of southern Korea. Typically found under rocks, logs, and leaf litter adjacent to flowing water. Diet consists of small arthropods including insects, crustaceans, mites, and other invertebrates encountered in moss and leaf debris.