The moist glandular skin functions as respiratory surfaces. The skin is permeable and can absorb polluted water which can cause death. Many have bright colors to warn of their bad taste from skin secretions. The skin is shed, sometimes whole, and sometimes in pieces which are then eaten. They are strictly carnivorous and feed on small invertebrates, fish and frogs.
Salamanders have poor eyesight and rely on smell and touch to locate prey.
They live in or near ponds, lakes, streams, or rivers. Some species are wholly terrestrial, some wholly aquatic, and some amphibious. Many salamanders exhibit complex courtship rituals. After mating, the female may retain sperm for several months before laying eggs. The eggs hatch into carnivorous larvae, which look very much like an adult with gills.