Description

The only species of its genus in MS, this eel-like salamander can be found throughout Mississippi in various bodies of water. They are dark brown or gray with dark spotting patterns. They are highly aquatic and elongated like amphiumas, but have a set of external gills and do not grow as large. Adults range from 7 – 27 inches (Powell et al., 2016). Legs are more developed. Only one subspecies is encountered in MS.

Identifying Traits

• Dark brown or gray body with external gills
• Long eel-like body

Subspecies Present:

Western Lesser Siren (Siren intermedia nettingi)

Habitat

Nearly any body of water

Behavior

Generally utilizes natural structures like rocks and logs for shelter, highly aquatic and rarely leaves water bodies

Diet

Various invertebrates