New Species of Nototriton (Caudata: Plethodontidae) from Eastern Guatemala

Abstract

Three new species of Nototriton are described from eastern Guatemala. All of these diminutive species of salamanders occur in wet forest in the mountains (875-1150 m) near the Guatemala-Honduras border. Characteristics of size, proportion, and coloration distinguish these new species from each other and their congeners. Members of the genus Nototriton inhabiting Guatemala and Honduras may be placed in one of two distinctive morphotypes. One group appears to be adapted to a semifossorial existence and has small nares, a narrow head, short limbs, small hands and feet, and lacks a dark face mask; one of the new species belongs in this group. Members of the other group are adapted for climbing and have larger nares, broader heads, longer limbs, larger hands and feet and a conspicuous dark face mask; two of the new species belong in this group.