Batrachoseps regius
The Kings River slender salamander (Batrachoseps regius) is a species of salamander native to California, found in the Kings River watershed. It is distinguished by its limited geographic distribution, being known from only two specific locations within the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to California, specifically Fresno County.
- ›Found in the lower Kings River watershed and Summit Meadow in Kings Canyon National Park.
- ›Inhabits temperate riparian, interior chaparral, woodlands, and coniferous forests.
- ›Classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
- ›Known from only two distinct locations.
Kings River Slender Salamander
Temperate Riparian, Interior Chaparral, Woodlands, Temperate Coniferous Forests
United States
About Batrachoseps regius
Kings River Slender Salamander
The Kings River slender salamander, scientifically known as Batrachoseps regius, is a species of salamander native to California. It belongs to the family Plethodontidae, a group characterized by lungless respiration.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is endemic to a very specific region within the western United States, primarily found in Fresno County, California. Its known range is limited to two distinct locations: the lower watershed of the Kings River, at elevations between 335 and 340 meters, and a higher elevation site at Summit Meadow in Kings Canyon National Park, reaching approximately 2,470 meters. The natural habitats supporting these populations include temperate riparian zones, interior chaparral and woodlands, and temperate coniferous forests.
Conservation Status
Due to its restricted geographic distribution and the limited number of known populations, the Kings River slender salamander is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. This designation highlights the potential risks to the species' survival, likely linked to its specialized habitat requirements and small, isolated populations.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name for the Kings River slender salamander?
The scientific name for the Kings River slender salamander is Batrachoseps regius. This binomial nomenclature identifies it as a distinct species within its genus.
Where is the Kings River slender salamander found?
This salamander is endemic to California, specifically in Fresno County. It is found in the lower watershed of the Kings River and at the Summit Meadow location within Kings Canyon National Park in the western Sierra Nevada.
What habitats does the Kings River slender salamander live in?
Its natural habitats include temperate riparian areas, interior chaparral and woodlands along the Kings River, and temperate coniferous forests at higher elevations like Summit Meadow.
What is the conservation status of the Kings River slender salamander?
The Kings River slender salamander is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. This status reflects concerns about its limited population and distribution.
How many locations are known for the Kings River slender salamander?
The Kings River slender salamander is known from only two distinct locations. This limited range contributes to its conservation status.
Related Salamander and Newt species
Batrachoseps incognitus
The San Simeon slender salamander (Batrachoseps incognitus) is a species of salamander native to California. It inhabits riparian areas, chaparral, woodlands, and temperate coniferous forests within southwestern Monterey and northern San Luis Obispo Counties. This species is characterized by its slender body and is found in the Santa Lucia Range.
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Bolitoglossa alvaradoi, also known as the Moravia de Chirripo salamander, is a medium-sized salamander species endemic to Costa Rica. It is distinguished by its olive-green to dark brown back with black flecking and a pink to fawn hue, inhabiting lowland and premontane rainforests.
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