rhombeus

Rhombeus is a genus of small to medium-sized, terrestrial salamanders native to the southeastern United States. The genus was first described by American herpetologist Edward Drinker Cope in 1866, and it includes three recognized species: Rhombeus marmoratus, Rhombeus microlophus, and Rhombeus nigromaculatus. These salamanders are often referred to as "marbled salamanders" due to the distinctive marbled pattern on their bodies.

Rhombeus salamanders are characterized by their smooth, rounded bodies and short limbs. They have a dark, marbled pattern on their backs, which helps them blend into their surroundings. Their undersides are typically a lighter color, with some species exhibiting a yellow or orange tint. Rhombeus salamanders are primarily nocturnal, and they feed on a variety of invertebrates, such as insects and worms.

These salamanders are found in a range of habitats, including forests, swamps, and wetlands. They are known to burrow into the soil to escape predators or during periods of drought. Rhombeus salamanders are generally considered to be of least concern by the IUCN, as their populations are stable and they are not facing significant threats. However, habitat loss and degradation due to human activities, such as logging and agriculture, may pose a threat to their long-term survival.