California salamanders

California salamanders are amphibians native to California, primarily inhabiting forests, streams, and moist environments. They belong to the Plethodontidae family, known for lacking lungs and instead breathing through their skin and lining of their mouth. These salamanders typically have slender bodies, short limbs, and long tails, with coloration ranging from browns to reds, often with spots. They play a vital role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations and serving as indicators of environmental health. Sensitive to habitat changes, many species are protected or threatened, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts to preserve their habitats.