Identification
A subspecies of the Mudpuppy, the Red River Mudpuppy is slightly smaller and
is yellowish-brown or tan in color with a light stripe on each side. Dark spots
also cover the body. The belly is grayish-white and unmarked, and can be tinged
with pink. A dark stripe extends from the nose through the eye and onto the
fringy maroon external gills.
Distribution and Status
The Red River Mudpuppy is found solely within the Arkansas River and its drainage
systems which extend from southeast Kansas to southern Missouri and north central
Louisiana. Within the Midwest, the Red River Mudpuppy is only found in Missouri.
Ecology
Although they can swim quite well, the Mudpuppy tends to live on the bottom
of its aquatic habitat, burrowing under submerged objects. Deeper (at least
3 feet), permanent bodies of water are home to the Mudpuppy. These areas include
lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams.
Threats and Management Issues
Due to their odd appearance, the Mudpuppy has been falsely labeled as dangerous, and people that catch them while fishing will often kill them. Being entirely aquatic, the Mudpuppy is highly susceptible to water pollution.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Reference guides and websites specific to Amphibians.
Links to more information on the Red River Mudpuppy outside the Herp Center
University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499