Eastern Red-backed Salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) in a Highly Acid Forest Soil

Abstract

Abstract Eastern red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus; RBS), known to be one of the most common vertebrates within its geographical range, is an amphibian species commonly used as indicator of forest ecosystem health. Its suitability in this role is based in part on previous studies showing that it is sensitive to changes in habitat such as increased acidity. The occurrence and body sizes of RBS were examined under coverboards, over a 5 y period, in a northern hardwood forest of Quebec (Canada) having a highly acidic forest floor (pH = 3.7 ± 0.4). During this period, 565 RBS were captured. Encounter rate (29%) of salamanders under coverboards was considered very high, as compared to similar studies. Also, 87% of youngs of the year and 83% of adults were found under coverboards that had a forest floor pH ≤ 3.8, representing 79% of all coverboards. Weight and length of RBS measured in this forest ecosystem are among the highest values reported in the scientific literature for this species. Both the r...