This species inhabits cool, moist habitats near water in association with springs and permanent streams. During drier periods it can be found in the wetter portions of those streams. Individuals are often found under stones, logs, and other large cover objects in streams and springs. They are found under cover in both open areas and within the twilight zone of caves (Green et al. 2014). In wet weather, this species disperses into wooded, terrestrial habitats. Larvae develop in streams, and eggs are laid on the undersides of rocks in cave streams and springs. This species appears to be tolerant of habitat disturbance, as it has been found in numerous settings including on development properties (Green et al. 2014).

This species can be found in the USA from southern Missouri to central Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma (Conant and Collins 1991, Collins 1993, Petranka 1998). It occurs at elevations between 110–760 m asl (Green et al. 2014). Cope (1889) reported this species from extreme southeastern Kansas, however this record is not backed by a voucher specimen (Dundee 1965) and is therefore coded as "Presence Uncertain".

Conservation Actions In-Place
This species likely occurs in several protected areas.

In an effort to prevent the introduction of Bsal into the US, an Interim Rule of the Lacey Act has been enacted that bans the importation of 201 species of salamanders (USFWS 2016). Additionally, a temporary voluntary trade moratorium of imports of Asian salamander species that are known to carry the disease until such time as effective testing and treatment regimens can be developed and distributed has been recommended to all exporters, shippers, sellers and buyers by the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC). A North America Bsal Task Force has also been created, with working groups designed to address a variety of disease prevention and mitigation goals (North America Bsal Task Force 2021).