Hellbender
A species of Hellbender, Also known as Snot otter, Devil dog, Grampus, Mud dog Scientific name : Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Genus : Hellbender
Hellbender, A species of Hellbender
Also known as:
Snot otter, Devil dog, Grampus, Mud dog
Scientific name: Cryptobranchus alleganiensis
Genus: Hellbender
Content
Description People often ask General Info
Photo By U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The hellbender is a giant salamander endemic to the eastern and central United States. A predatory lifestyle in fast, shallow streams has resulted in many adaptations that give it its strange looks - the flat body with a large head, skinfolds for breathing, and tiny eyes assisted by light-sensitive cells in the skin. Very sensitive to pollution, the hellbender is currently listed as "near threatened."
People often ask
General Info
Lifespan
25-30 years
Diet
Hellbender feeds predominantly on aquatic invertebrates, making crayfish and aquatic insects its primary nourishment. It also displays a propensity for small fish and amphibians when available.
Appearance
Hellbender is a large aquatic salamander with a flat body and broad head. Its skin is thick, slimy and exhibits a dark, blotchy coloration, ranging from brown to gray. The creature carries small eyes and lacks external ear openings. Featuring external, fleshy gills behind their heads for respiration, the species is completely aquatic. No significant differences in appearance between genders or age groups are recorded.
Behavior
Hellbender is a nocturnal, solitary species primarily active after dusk. Notable for its infrequent movements, it prefers to stay hidden under rocks, exhibiting remarkable camouflage. During the breeding season, males exhibit territorial behavior, fiercely defending their chosen areas. Hellbender also exhibits unique survival behavior, entering hibernation during winter when water temperatures drop.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Northeast Region , used under PUBLIC-DOMAIN /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Salamanders Family
Giant salamanders Genus
Hellbender Species
Hellbender