The term "American mole salamanders" is often used to refer to the family of salamanders known as the "mole salamanders" or "ambystomatids," which belong to the genus Ambystoma. This group includes various species native to North America.
Here are some common species of American mole salamanders:
Ambystoma maculatum (Spotted Salamander): These salamanders have yellow spots against a dark blue or black body and are commonly found in eastern North America.
Ambystoma talpoideum (Mole Salamander): This species features smooth skin and is found throughout many regions in the United States.
Ambystoma opacum (Marbled Salamander): They have a marbled pattern on their skin and are known for migrating to vernal pools to breed.
Ambystoma jeffersonianum (Jefferson Salamander): These salamanders feature large, bold markings and are named after Thomas Jefferson, who described them.
Ambystoma tigrinum (Barred Tiger Salamander): They are known for their distinctive barred pattern that resembles a tiger's stripes.
The mention of "American mole salamanders" might come from various contexts. For instance:
In short, "American mole salamanders" usually refers to the ambystomatids in the genus Ambystoma and may imply their geographical relation or distinction from related salamanders found in other regions. However, depending on the context you heard this term, its intended meaning could vary slightly.