Description: 4-7 in. (10-18 cm).  Distinguishing coloration is a black belly with a double row of light dots along the sides of the body. The tail is very stout towards the body and this salamander is one of the largest lungless salamanders.
Habitats: Found in cascading streams, brooks, and waterfalls abundant with boulders in the mountains of North Carolina.
Habits: Blackbelly salamanders are not nocturnal but will seek shelter under rocks and in the water during the day and can sometimes be seen on a wet rock in the sun.  These salamanders are difficult to catch and will bite.
Young: Juveniles have yellow flecks on belly with light colored snout and feet.