Taxonomic notes: There is some question as to the taxonomic validity of this species (D. Wake, G. Parra-Olea, T. Papenfuss, pers. comm.).

This species is said to be characteristic of the Sierra Madre Occidental in the state of Durango, western Mexico, at 2,438-2,469m asl. The limits of its distribution are not clear, but recorded localities include Navios, El Salto and Otinapa, and two new localities have recently been added. One of these is 9km east of Mimbres, while the other is north of Temosachic, and both are in east-central Chihuahua (Webb pers. comm.). This species is sympatric with Ambystoma rosaceum.

It is believed to be characteristic of the pine-oak forest highlands of the Sierra Madre Occidental. Larvae have been found in man-made ponds, cattle tanks, and shallow lakes. Sexually mature adults have been found in the larval form, but also as fully metamorphosed individuals that occur on land.

There is little information on its population status.

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There is very little information on direct threats to this species. If the threats are similar to those of the sympatric A. rosaceum, it might be affected by introduced predatory fishes, and possibly by agricultural expansion. The species probably exists, however, without experiencing negative impacts in cattle areas provided that breeding habitat remains available.

• 8.1.1 Unspecified species
• 2.1.2 Small-holder farming

There is very little information. Improved habitat protection is likely needed throughout its range.

• 2.1 Site/area management
• 1.1 Site/area protection

Listed as Data Deficient because it has only recently been described, and there is still very little known about its Extent of Occurrence, Area of Occupancy, taxonomic and conservation status, and ecological requirements.

• Raffaëlli, J. 2007. Les Urodèles du monde. Penclen Edition.
• Webb, R.G. 2004. Observations on tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum complex, Family Ambystomatidae) in Mexico with description of a new species. Bulletin of the Maryland Herpetological Society: 122-143.