Biofluorescence is Phylogenetically Widespread and Highly Variable in the Skin of Plethodontid Salamanders

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ID: 315649
2026
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Abstract
Biofluorescence is the absorption and reemission of light by living organisms. Several studies have shown biofluorescence to be widespread in a variety of animal groups, though few of these studies have taken a comparative approach within a specific taxonomic group. Plethodontidae is the most speciose family of salamanders and one such group in which biofluorescence has recently been discovered. However, the distribution and sources of biofluorescence have been assessed in only a few species. We used a combination of microscopy and histology to characterize biofluorescence in eight genera and twelve species representing most of the major branches of the plethodontid phylogeny. We found biofluorescent skin in all twelve species, though the distribution, sources, and intraspecific patterns in biofluorescence varied greatly between species. Biofluorescence was more abundant in ventral skin than in dorsal skin in most species. All species possessed glandular and/or non-glandular (chromatophore-based) sources of biofluorescence. Biofluorescent glands (BFGs) also displayed impressive variety both between and within species, with several distinct morphologies that were typically carbohydrate-rich. We also documented male, female, adult, and juvenile biases in biofluorescence in various species. With so much variation in the sources and patterns of biofluorescence, it seems likely that this phenotype may serve unique functions in different species. Our results provide the first family-wide assessment of biofluorescence in Plethodontidae while laying the groundwork for future studies of the functions of biofluorescence in each species.
Reference Key
openalex_W7163347391 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Michael C. Kardos, Jasper Kopfinger, Dasara Slova, Sarah K Woodley
Journal integrative and comparative biology
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/icb/icag068
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/icb/icag068
Keywords Keywords not found

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