Batrachoseps diabolicus
The Hell Hollow slender salamander (Batrachoseps diabolicus) is a species of salamander found exclusively in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. It inhabits the western slopes, specifically within the watersheds of the Merced and American Rivers. This species is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, due to its presumed large population and wide distribution.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Mariposa County, California.
- ›Found on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada.
- ›Inhabits watersheds from the Merced River to the American River.
- ›Occurs at elevations up to at least 900 meters (3,000 ft).
- ›Currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List.
- ›Was previously listed as a data deficient species until 2023.
Hell Hollow Slender Salamander
Watersheds of Rivers, Western Slopes of Mountains
California, United States
About Batrachoseps diabolicus
Hell Hollow Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps diabolicus)
The Hell Hollow slender salamander, scientifically known as Batrachoseps diabolicus, is a species of salamander native to California, United States. It belongs to the family Plethodontidae and is distinguished by its specific geographic range and conservation status.
Distribution and Habitat
This salamander is endemic to Mariposa County in California, inhabiting the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Its distribution is confined to the watersheds of the Merced River extending through to the American River. The species can be found at elevations up to at least 900 meters (approximately 3,000 feet).
Conservation Status
As of recent assessments, the Hell Hollow slender salamander is classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List. This designation is based on its relatively wide geographic distribution and an assumed large population size. It is believed that the species is not declining at a rate significant enough to warrant a more threatened conservation status. Notably, until 2023, it was listed as a data deficient species, indicating a lack of sufficient information for a comprehensive assessment.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Hell Hollow slender salamander found?
The Hell Hollow slender salamander is endemic to California, specifically in Mariposa County. It is found on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains, within the watersheds of the Merced River through to the American River.
What is the conservation status of Batrachoseps diabolicus?
Batrachoseps diabolicus is currently listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List. This designation is due to its relatively wide distribution and presumed large population, which suggest it is not declining rapidly enough to warrant a more threatened status.
What elevations can this salamander be found at?
The Hell Hollow slender salamander is found at elevations up to at least 900 meters (3,000 ft) on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada.
Has the conservation status of this species always been 'least concern'?
No, until 2023, the Hell Hollow slender salamander was listed as a data deficient species. Its status was updated to least concern following further assessment of its distribution and population.
Related Salamander and Newt species
Blue Ridge spring salamander
The Blue Ridge spring salamander, a subspecies of the spring salamander (Gyrinophilus porphyriticus), is found in the southern Appalachian Mountains and adjacent Piedmont regions of the United States. This species is distinguished by a distinctive white line from its eye to its nostril, bordered by a dark line, and its varied dorsal coloration ranging from reddish to orange-yellow with black or brown spots. They inhabit cool springs, mountain springs, and moist forest areas, and are notable for their diet which can include other salamanders.
Blackbelly salamander
The blackbelly salamander, formerly classified as Desmognathus quadramaculatus, is a medium-sized salamander endemic to the Appalachian Mountains of the southeastern United States. It is distinguished by its dark brown to black coloration, often with pale spots, and its predominantly aquatic lifestyle, inhabiting cold mountain streams. Recent research has reclassified this group, splitting it into multiple distinct species.
Batrachoseps gregarius
The gregarious slender salamander (Batrachoseps gregarius) is a species of salamander native to California. It is characterized by its small, slender build, narrow head, short limbs, and a long, tapering tail. This species primarily inhabits chaparral, woodlands, and grasslands in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and the eastern Central Valley.