Adult: Species description based on Hanken et al (2005) and Savage (2002). Large salamander with tail shorter than length of body. Females to 169 mm total length. Dorsal: Black. Ventral: Black, although the throat and palms of hands and feet may be a little lighter. Distinguishing characteristics: This species is almost entirely black. Extremities: Hands and feet rather large and moderately webbed.
Habitat: Lower montane and montane forest from 1650-3000 m elevation. Type locality: Costa Rica, Prov. San Jose, Boquete road camp (Boquete), ca. 9 27.4 N, 83 41.1 W, 6000 ft (1829 m) elevation