Site, Visit, Survey, and eDNA Data for Limestone Salamanders (Hydromantes brunus) from Mariposa County, California, 2024-2025

Limestone salamanders (Hydromantes brunus) are cryptic terrestrial salamanders about which little is known, including their distribution. Because the salamanders are difficult to detect, survey protocols that estimate detection probabilities are needed to interpret the meaning of negative (non-detection) surveys and better understand the distribution of the salamanders. This study evaluates the use of eDNA collected from terrestrial (rock) surfaces and compares the efficacy of eDNA to visual encounter surveys to develop robust survey protocols to better understand the distribution of the salamanders, their relationship to habitat variables, and inform management of this rare species.