Courtship behavior of the Yonahlossee Salamander (Plethodon yonahlossee): Observations in the field and laboratory

Comparative studies of salamander courtship have shed light on questions of broad biological and practical importance, such as the evolution of complex behaviors, molecular and behavioral foundations of prezygotic barriers, and the implementation of captive breeding programs. Unfortunately, most observations of courtship in plethodontid salamanders are made in the laboratory, raising the question of whether existing observations also pertain to courtship in the wild. We observed the courtship of Plethodon yonahlossee in the laboratory and field and found only minor differences in behaviors between these two settings. The courtship behaviors of P. yonahlossee were similar to those of other large eastern Plethodon. Male salamanders pursued females and initiated a period of head contact with the head and body of the female. After this preliminary contact, pairs engaged in a tail-straddling walk, which led to spermatophore deposition and sperm transfer. In the laboratory, courting males chased and bit other males. We observed courtship in the field in late August. Our observations reinforce current knowledge of Plethodon courtship behavior and inform captive breeding efforts that may be part of future conservation programs.