Characterizing the regenerative capacity and growth patterns of the Texas blind salamander (Eurycea rathbuni)

Background Regeneration of complex patterned structures is well described among, although limited to a small sampling of, amphibians. This limitation impedes our understanding of the full range of regenerative competencies within this class of vertebrates, according to phylogeny, developmental life stage, and age. To broaden the phylogenetic breath of this research, we characterized the regenerative capacity of the Texas blind salamander (Eurycea rathbuni), a protected salamander native to the Edwards Aquifer of San Marcos, Texas and colonized by the San Marcos Aquatic Resource Center. As field observations suggested regenerative abilities in this population, the forelimb stump of a live captured female was amputated in the hopes of restoring the structure, and thus locomotion in the animal. Tails were clipped from two males to additionally document tail regeneration. Results We show that the Texas blind salamander exhibits robust limb and tail regeneration, like all other studied Plethodontidae. Regeneration in this species is associated with wound epithelium formation, blastema formation, and subsequent patterning and differentiation of the regenerate. Conclusions The study has shown that the Texas blind salamander is a valuable model to study regenerative processes, and that therapeutic surgeries offer a valuable means to help maintain and conserve this vulnerable species. Key Findings For the first time it has been shown that the Texas blind salamander exhibits robust limb and tail regeneration. Similar to other regenerating amphibians, the Texas blind salamander generates a blastema to regenerate a missing structure. Amputation surgeries can facilitate direct therapeutic rehabilitation and improved quality of life of wild captured Texas blind salamanders. This manuscript provides novel insight into the growth rates, courtship and husbandry of this species.