Question: Do Ambysoma Maculatum egg masses always contain algae?

[EasternNewtLove]

I have seen at least 50 egg mass this year, relocated a few from drying puddles, and moved some from a pond these people throw all there junk in (including a fog house...) but it's more of a hole in the ground filled with water and bugs. I gues that qualifies as a vernal pool to salamanders though Some frogs eggs were found, some salamanders eggs were found. I'm confused though. I found some salamander egg masses WITH algae and some WITHOUT. Are they both spotted salamanders egg masses or is one possibly jefferson salamanders?

 

[Kaysie]

Jefferson's lay small egg masses. They're distinct from maculatum.

I've found maculatum masses of all colors. Not all contain algae, I'd say 50-60% do. They tend to get greener as they age, but milky white is normal too.

 

[EasternNewtLove]

Thanks!