The Austin Blind Salamander is only found in the Austin Barton springs area. 

These salamanders are considered an “indicator” species because they are very sensitive to the chemistry of the water. The health of the salamanders is a direct reflection of the quality of the water from edwards aquifer. If the salamanders are healthy, our waters are healthy. A large portion of Texas depends on the water quality of Edwards Aquifter.With the influx of tourism and urban expansion in Austin, this is more important now than ever. 

The Barton Springs Salamander is only found in the austin barton springs area. This salamander primarily lives above ground in shallow streams and springs. It is also paedomorphic meaning it retains many of its juvenile characteristics, such as gills, through adulthood. 

The Texas Blind Salamander is only found in the Edwards Plateu region of Edwards-Trinity aquifer and has been on the endangered species list since 1967. This salamander has no eyes and instead “sees” its surroundings by sensing vibrations and changes in water pressure created by the movement of organisms. This is also how they hunt for prey such as small snails and aquatic invertebrates.It has two black dots on its face as a remnant of the eyes it once had that were lost to evolution. Its skin is pale and pinkish white in complexion and its feathery eternal gills help filter oxygen from the water.