Identification
The Hellbender is a large aquatic
salamander with a flat head, fleshy folds along each side, and very small eyes.
They vary in color from gray to brown, rust, or almost black, and may sometimes
have dark spots, with a greenish or reddish tint on the back. The belly is
generally slightly paler than the rest of the body. Juveniles possess
conspicuous dark spots and external gills. Adults can grow up to 2 feet in
length.
Distribution and Status
The range of the Hellbender extends from south central
Ecology
Hellbenders occupy large, fairly clear streams having gravel beds with rocks
and logs. This species is entirely aquatic and spends much of its time hiding
under rocks and logs.
Threats and Management Issues
Hellbender population declines are due to a number of human interferences.
Aquatic pollution and a build up of silt in streams and rivers from
agricultural practices and construction are chief among them. Damming, which
eliminates critical riffle areas and lowers the dissolved oxygen content, have
also contributed to documented declines. In addition, many Hellbenders are
killed by people fishing and accidentally catching the animal, as they are
frequently misconceived as being venomous.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Links to more information on the Hellbender outside the Herp Center
Illinois Natural History Survey
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management