Oki Salamander

A small, slender salamander typically measuring 3.5–5.5 inches (9–14 cm) in total length. Body is elongate and relatively gracile with moderately short limbs. Dorsal coloration is typically dark brown to blackish-brown, often with a reddish or copper-tinged vertebral stripe running the length of the body from head to tail tip. The vertebral stripe may be narrow and distinct or somewhat diffuse depending on individual variation. Dorsal surface is usually uniform or faintly flecked with lighter coloration. The head is relatively small and rounded. Costal grooves are typically 13–14 in number and are well-defined, a key diagnostic feature of hynobiid salamanders. Skin is smooth and slightly glossy. Limbs are short and weak, with digits relatively short. Ventral surface is dark gray to blackish, often slightly paler than the dorsum. Tail is laterally compressed and comprises approximately 40–50 percent of total length. This species is endemic to the Oki Islands of Japan and inhabits cool, moist microhabitats in forested areas, particularly around small streams, seepage areas, and under leaf litter and moss-covered logs on the forest floor. Diet consists of small invertebrates including mites, springtails, small insects, and other arthropods typical of leaf litter and soil fauna.