Red Back Salamander - Reproduction and Biomass

Reproduction and Biomass

Males and females typically establish separate feeding and/or mating territories underneath rocks and logs. However, some red back salamanders are thought to engage in social monogamy, and may maintain co-defended territories throughout their active period. Breeding occurs in June and July. Females produce from 4–17 eggs in a year. The eggs will hatch in 6–8 weeks. Not much is known about the dispersal of neonates, although it is thought that neonates and juveniles are philopatric. The species largely consumes invertebrates and other detritus dwellers. In some areas with good habitat, these salamanders are so numerous that their population densities may surpass 1,000 individuals per acre.