Salamanders are amphibians often misunderstood regarding their potential toxicity. Many wonder which species are safe to touch, as some produce defensive secretions. Understanding their varying natural defenses clarifies these concerns and allows for a more informed appreciation of these creatures.
How Salamanders Use Defensive Secretions
Many salamanders employ skin secretions as a defense mechanism against predators. These secretions are produced by specialized glands within their skin. The chemical composition of these substances varies significantly among species, ranging from mild irritants to potent neurotoxins.
Their purpose is to deter animals that might try to eat or harm the salamander. For instance, some secretions can taste bad, cause irritation to mucous membranes, or even induce nausea or paralysis in an attacker. While some species produce highly toxic compounds, others may only release substances that are merely unpleasant or slightly irritating upon contact. Even salamanders considered to have low toxicity can secrete substances that might cause a mild reaction if they come into contact with sensitive skin or mucous membranes.
Salamander Species with Low or No Known Toxicity
Many salamander species possess little to no significant toxicity to humans, or their secretions are considered mild irritants. Many belong to the family Plethodontidae, commonly known as lungless salamanders. These salamanders, such as the Red-backed Salamander (Plethodon cinereus) and the Northern Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineata), rely on camouflage and agility to evade predators rather than chemical defenses.
The Red-backed Salamander, a common woodland species, is not known to be toxic to humans. Similarly, the Northern Two-lined Salamander, frequently found near streams, does not pose a toxicity risk from its skin secretions. Some species within the Ambystoma genus, often called mole salamanders, also exhibit low toxicity. The Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) produces a milky white secretion that can be irritating to mucous membranes if ingested, but it is not considered highly toxic to humans through skin contact. Even species with low toxicity might still release mild irritants if they feel threatened or are handled roughly.
General Safety Around Wild Salamanders
Observing wild salamanders from a distance is the safest and most respectful approach. Unnecessary handling can stress these amphibians and harm their delicate, permeable skin. Their skin absorbs substances from their environment, and human skin can transfer oils, lotions, or other chemicals that are detrimental to them.
If accidental contact occurs, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water afterward. This practice helps remove any skin secretions and prevents accidental transfer to sensitive areas like the eyes or mouth. Respecting their natural habitats by not disturbing rocks or logs unnecessarily helps ensure their well-being. Wild salamanders should remain in their natural environments and are not suitable as pets unless acquired from reputable, legal sources with proper care knowledge.
Clarifying Common Misconceptions About Salamanders
A common misunderstanding involves the distinction between salamanders and newts. All newts are a type of salamander, but not all salamanders are newts. This distinction is relevant when discussing toxicity, as many newt species are more toxic than other salamander species.
For example, the Rough-skinned Newt (Taricha granulosa) and the Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) produce potent neurotoxins in their skin. This contrasts with many other salamander species that have minimal or no toxicity. While bright coloration can sometimes signal toxicity, it is not a foolproof rule for all salamanders. Some highly toxic species may be brightly colored, but many non-toxic or mildly toxic species also exhibit vibrant patterns.