Larval Amphibians - Salamanders

Eastern Red-backed Salamander

• No free swimming larva stage, larva develops within egg and hatches as tiny replica of adult
• 2 distinct phases: the red-back phase has a broad, red stripe down the back and tail; the lead-back phase has a dark grey or lead-coloured back
• Eggs: laid terrestrially in clusters concealed under rocks or attached to cavities in logs or stumps; female broods the eggs and developing embryos; bacteria on skin produce antibiotics that protect eggs and developing embryos from fungus
• Habitat: forested areas; under logs and rocks; may be abundant where there is moist downed woody debris

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