Intra- and interspecific communication in salamanders through chemical signals on the substrate
Jaeger, RG.; Gergits, WF.
Animal Behaviour 271: 150-156
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-3472
DOI: 10.1016/0003-3472(79)90134-9
Accession: 021215051
Chemical markings on the substrate facilitate communication between conspecifics of the red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus) and between individuals of the red-backed and Shenandoah salamander (P. nettingi shenandoah). During 2 choice laboratory tests, male and female P. cinereus showed a preference for their own substrates only when simultaneously exposed to the substrates of conspecific males. In interspecific tests, red-backed and Shenandoah salamanders avoided substrates of congeners in all but one case. Female P. cinereus did not avoid substrates of male P. n. shenandoah. Body secretions and/or fecal material may act as signal markers during territorial defense.