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Hellbender

Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

Range

Native to 14 states in the south-eastern United States, including Arkansas, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Missouri and Virginia.

Habitat

prefers cool, clear fast-flowing larger streams and rivers with rocky bottoms

Distinguishing Characteristics

It is a large, totally aquatic salamander with loose, highly-folded skin along the lower sides of the body, which it uses for breathing. Color can range from yellowish-brown to almost black with very faint scattered spots on the adults. Its tail is laterally compressed to act as a rudder.

Dietary Classification

Diet in the Zoo: night crawlers, fish, shrimp and rat pinkies

Diet in the Wild: mostly crustaceans but also insects and worms

Life Span

up to 29 years in captivity

Behavior/Adaptations

It's nocturnal and “walks” through the fast-moving water rather then swimming. They use their lateral line, which detects vibrations in the water, to catch prey.

Status

Listed as near threatened by the IUCN.

Classification

Kingdom	Phylum	Class	Order	Family	Genus	Species
Animalia	Chordata	Amphibia	Caudata	Cryptobranchidae	Cryptobranchus	alleganiensis