Berry Cave Salamander

The Berry Cave Salamander is found in only 3 counties (Knox, McMinn, and Roane) of the Ridge and Valley Province in east TN. Formerly a subspecies of Tennessee Cave Salamander (G. palleucus). A long-bodied salamander (4.0 to 9.0 inches in length) with small eyes, a lack of eyelids, a wide head, a spatulate snout, and bright red, feathery, external gills. Overall coloration is salmon to pale pink with a pale belly. Also, has a unique dark stripe on the forward half of the throat.

Similar Species: The Tennessee Cave Salamander has a smaller head and body and lacks a throat stripe.

Habitat: Caves, sinkholes, or near mouths of caves. Prefers caves with water flowing inward.

Diet: Primarily aquatic invertebrates.

Breeding information: Unknown. Most likely breeds in caves and passages they occupy.

Status in Tennessee: Declining due to water quality degradation from above-ground disturbance. In 1994, TWRA listed the Berry Cave Salamander as Threatened.

Fun Facts:  

• Berry Cave Salamanders are “neotenic,” meaning they spend their lives in the larval phase.

Best places to see in Tennessee: Cave entrances in the Ridge and Valley Province.