Adult: Species description based on Wake et al (2005). Large salamander with a large head and short limbs. The only known specimen measured approximately 164 mm, including the tail. Dorsal: Dorsal surface black, with some metallic sheen. Ventral: Ventral surface dark grey, lightening near the head. Distinguishing characteristics: This species has a white mouth, throat, and chest. Eye: The eyes are rather small. Extremities: Hands and feet are extensively webbed, although tiny digits protrude at the tip.
Habitat: Montane forest. The only known specimen was collected at 1315 m elevation. Ecology: The type specimen was found on a earthen mound (Wake et al 2005). Type locality: "Panama, Provincia de Cocle, Parque Nacional General de Division Omar Torrijos Herrera, from near the summit of Cerro Pena Blanca, approximate UTM coordinates 0541522 0957221, 1315 m elevation"