Sexual Dimorphism in Dorsal Spot Number and Yellow Surface Area in Fire Salamanders, Salamandra salamandra terrestris Linnaeus, 1758 (Caudata: Salamandridae)
Abstract
Abstract Sexual selection among amphibians is mainly based on size and colour dimorphism. Those criteria are less studied in salamanders. Only morphometric and yellow surface differences between males and females are known. We studied a Salamandra salamandra terrestris population and observed significant differences in spots number and yellow surface area between males and females. Females have on average more spots and are blacker than males on their back.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Animal Behavior and Reproduction
Amphibian and Reptile Biology
Reproductive biology and impacts on aquatic species
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Herpetology
- Volume
- 60
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 61–65
- Publication date
- 26 February 2026
- Language
- EN