Large Eurycea larvae

[Lamb]

Hello all!

I was wondering what the total lengths have been for the largest, wild Eurycea guttolineata or E. cirrigera larvae that people have found. I found one yesterday in a small stream that was approximately 7 cm. total length (lets say 6 cm., just to be cautious). From everything I've read, it seems that they typically morph out at around 3 cm, which makes me curious about this guy. I will attach photos when I get home, but the gills don't look like those of a Desmog.

 

[jaster]

I would say E. cirrigera, but where did you find it?

E. cirrigera Amphibiaweb

 

[Lamb]

E. cirrigera also seems more likely to me.

It was found in a small stream in a very hilly, mesic mixed-hardwood forest in south Mississippi.

 

[Lamb]

Here are two photos. Any tips on photographing larvae in the field would be appreciated.

 

[jaster]

Well, it's definitely no Desmog.

I read somewhere that the cheek and sometimes dorsal coloration can be used to distinguish Eurycea larvae, I'll have to dig that up... After looking at the pictures on Amphibiaweb it does look more like a southern two-lined and not a three-lined.

As for taking their photos, I haven't found out a great technique. Using a small glass or plastic tank could get good shots for ID's but not pretty looking ones. I've also seen some pictures on here with underwater cameras/ casings that look amazing.

 

[NachoMom]

It's a little beauty either way!