10 

 salamander ( Rhyacotriton olympicus ) indicate that it is highly 

 fragmented throughout its range in isolated populations with 

 little or no gene flow among the populations (Good et al. 1987) . 

 If such a situation is revealed by genetic analyses of the Coeur 

 d'Alene salamander, the current conservation strategy may need 

 revision to reflect the added significance of unique populations. 

 Of primary concern is that the species retain sufficient genetic 

 variability to allow future evolution. This is particularly true 

 for a relict species which may be limited by several 

 environmental-physiological barriers. Reducing the present 

 genetic variation could restrict the species' ability to respond 

 to changing environmental conditions. 

 MANAGEMENT 

 Potential threats and management concerns 



There is rising global concern about declining amphibian 

 populations. Amphibians are thought to be sensitive 

 bioindicators of environmental change because of their highly 

 permeable skin, central trophic position, and occurrence in 

 fragmented but interconnected populations (Wake and Horowitz 

 1990, Wyman 1990) . Therefore, status of salamander populations 

 is one indicator of the overall health of an ecosystem. Specific 

 threats to the Coeur d'Alene salamander include: timber harvest, 

 road and trail construction, water diversion projects, pollution, 

 introduction of exotic species, fire, and illegal collecting. 

 Impacts to the salamander should be assessed when any of these 

 activities occur in Coeur d'Alene salamander habitat. 



