Description

Hellbenders are large stream-dwelling salamanders found in the eastern US. Its range extends to the extreme northeast reach of Mississippi. They are brown, wrinkly-skinned, with flattened heads. Unlike the large amphiumas, hellbenders have fully developed limbs. Habitat loss and watershed modification may be negatively affecting populations. There are various captive breeding programs and protected land in support of the conservation of this salamander.

Identifying Traits

• Large brown body with skin folds (wrinkled appearance)
• Flattened head

Subspecies Present:

Eastern Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis)

Habitat

Clear, flowing streams with rock cover (Powell et al., 2016)

Behavior

Ambush suction predator, streambed rocks for cover and reproduction (Petranka, 1998)

Diet

Various small invertebrates and fish (ambush feeder)