Smith's False Brook Salamander
Pseudoeurycea smithi
Overview
Pseudoeurycea smithi, commonly known as Smith's false brook salamander, is a species of salamander in the family Plethodontidae. It is endemic to certain mountainous regions of Mexico. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Pseudoeurycea smithi faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development in its restricted montane range. The species is particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as rising temperatures force populations to higher elevations with increasingly limited suitable habitat. Deforestation for coffee plantations and cattle ranching has fragmented remaining forest patches, isolating small populations and reducing genetic diversity.
Habitat
This salamander inhabits cloud forests and pine-oak woodlands at elevations between 2,400-3,200 meters in the mountains of central Mexico. It requires cool, humid microhabitats with abundant leaf litter and fallen logs, typically found in undisturbed forest areas with consistent moisture levels.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PLETHODONTIDAE
Threatened in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
Why is Smith's False Brook Salamander classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Smith's False Brook Salamander live?
What are the main threats to Smith's False Brook Salamander?
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