Ambystoma ordinarium
MICHOACAN STREAM SALAMANDER
Ambystoma ordinarium - Taylor 1940
IDENTIFICATION:
DISTRIBUTION:
High-elevation forests on the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt from the vicinity of Pátzcuaro, eastward to the border of Mexico State (Municipio de Tianguistenco). Elevation distribution above 2,200m.
HABITAT:
High-elevation fir, pine and pine-oak forests in the immediate vicinity of streams; this species can utilize streams in pastures and somewhat cleared areas. Transformed individuals are generally found within 30 meters of streams.
NATURAL HISTORY:
This is the only primarily diurnal species of Ambystoma. Adults can be viewed as they forage underwater, but if disturbed they seek shelter beneath cover objects or undercut banks. Transformed adults are more common within the streams during the summer months. Transformed individuals are relatively rare in this species, but they do occur and are usually found within or adjacent to streamcourses.
TAXONOMY:
This is one of the most distinctive species of Ambystoma in Mexico.
TYPE:
Described as Ambystoma ordinaria by Taylor (1940). Holotype: FMNH 100055. Type locality: “small stream at an elevation of about 9,000 feet, four miles west of El Mirador, near Puerto Hondo, Michoacán, Mexico”.
PERSONAL NOTES:
I have no experience with this species, having never been within its range.
CONSERVATION STATUS:
IUCN Red List Status for Ambystoma ordinarium is currently listed as “Endangered” because of the highly fragmented nature of the remaining populations and the continued degradation of the habitat within its small natural range. A. ordinarium is afforded Special Protection status by the Mexican Government, and it occurs within the boundaries of Parque Nacional Bosencheve.
REFERENCES:
Huacúz Elias, D. de. C. 2001. Estado de Conservación del Genero Ambystoma en Michoacán, Mexico. 53 pgs. ISBN 968-817-391-6