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Hellbender
Cryptobranchus alleganiensis
Image by Andrew Hoffman, 2007
Description
A giant, fully aquatic salamander with a flattened body and wrinkled skin folds, reaching over a foot long. Indiana's largest amphibian, hidden beneath big rocks in clean rivers.
Stats
Size
11 – 25 inches
Status
Endangered
Similar Species
Mudpuppy
Diet
Mostly crayfish but will consume earthworms, fish, and invertebrates
Habitat
Found in clean, cool, well aerated rivers and streams with ample rock cover.
Reproduction
Males build nests beneath large rocks using small stones. Females soon deposit long strands of eggs.
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