The Mississippi Slimy Salamander (Plethodon mississippi) is a land-dwelling amphibian with a name that’s almost as fun as the creature itself. As part of the Plethodon genus, this salamander is known not just for where it lives but for what it does: when threatened, it oozes a sticky, glue-like slime from its skin. It’s one of nature’s weirder (and more effective) defense systems.
Though it’s not a flashy amphibian, this secretive salamander plays an important role in forest ecosystems and is a fascinating example of the biodiversity found in the southeastern United States.
Size & Physical Appearance
Mississippi Slimy Salamanders are medium-sized, usually measuring between 4 to 6 inches long from snout to tail tip. Their bodies are slender and moist-looking, as you’d expect from most salamanders.
They’re typically black or dark gray with a scattering of tiny white, silver, or pale flecks along their back and sides. These speckles can vary quite a bit from one individual to another — some may have lots, others just a few. Their underside is a solid dark gray.
Juveniles look like smaller versions of adults, though their body patterns may be a little less distinct. There isn’t a huge visual difference between males and females, but males may have slightly longer limbs and more prominent glands near their tails.
Habitat and Range
This species is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in Mississippi and parts of neighboring states like Alabama. As their name suggests, they’re closely associated with Mississippi’s deciduous forests and moist woodlands.
They prefer habitats that are shady, damp, and rich in leaf litter or rotting logs. You’re most likely to find them in mature hardwood forests — especially areas with loose, moist soil where they can burrow or hide under logs, rocks, or bark. They’re primarily found at low to moderate elevations.
Because they breathe through their skin (and the lining of their mouth), they need moist environments to survive. You won’t find these guys far from a good hiding spot.
Diet
Like most terrestrial salamanders, the Mississippi Slimy Salamander is an opportunistic predator. Its diet includes:
- Small insects
- Worms and grubs
- Spiders
- Other small invertebrates
They’re mostly nighttime foragers, creeping around the forest floor after dark to snatch up whatever bitesized critter wanders by. Their sticky tongue helps catch tiny prey with impressive speed.
Lifespan
In the wild, these salamanders can live for 8 to 10 years, although it’s hard to track individuals over time. In captivity (though it’s not commonly kept), lifespans may be slightly longer with steady conditions and no predators.
Identification Tips
This species can look a lot like other members of the Plethodon genus — particularly other slimy salamanders and woodland types. Here’s how to tell them apart:
- Spotted pattern: Look for irregular white or silver flecks. If the spots are larger, evenly spaced, or lined up, it might be another species.
- Location matters: If you’re in Mississippi or central Alabama in moist hardwood forests, there’s a good chance it’s the Mississippi Slimy Salamander.
- No red or bright color: Unlike red-backed salamanders or marbled salamanders, this species lacks any vivid markings.
To positively ID the Mississippi Slimy Salamander, a herpetologist may need to look at genetics or minor details in toe or head shape. For everyday nature fans, location and general appearance are your best clues.
Fun Fact
When threatened, the Mississippi Slimy Salamander can secrete a thick, gluey slime from its tail and body that is so sticky it can trap small predators or at least give it enough time to escape. This isn’t just a mild goo — it’s been known to gum up snake jaws and frustrate hungry mammals. Nature’s version of a smoke bomb… but way stickier.
Final Thoughts
The Mississippi Slimy Salamander might not shout for attention, but it’s an important part of its forest ecosystem. These little hunters help control insect populations and serve as food for larger animals. If you’re out hiking in the Southeast and lift a log or rock, there’s a fair chance you’ll meet one — just remember to gently put its hiding spot back to preserve its cool, damp home.
Whether you’re building your species checklist or just have curious kids who love creepy crawlies, this gooey woodland dweller is a great one to know.