Northern Dwarf Siren
Pseudobranchus striatus
Reaching only 4-10 inches in length, this is the smallest species of siren. It lacks hind limbs, its front limbs are extremely small and rudimentary, and it has a finned…
How to identify
Reaching only 4-10 inches in length, this is the smallest species of siren. It lacks hind limbs, its front limbs are extremely small and rudimentary, and it has a finned tail, making it very eel-like in appearance. It is strictly aquatic and retains external gills throughout its life. It is primarily brown with darker speckles, and light lateral stripes down its body. It has costal grooves and only 1 gill slit on each side.
Range
Coastal South Carolina, southern Georgia, and northern Florida.
Habitat
A secretive species that lives entirely underwater among aquatic vegetation or mud and debris in shallow swamps, ponds, and ditches. It is particularly fond of cypress and gum swamps in acidic pine flatwoods.
Variations
Slight variation in shades of brown coloration is possible.
Similar species
Most likely to be confused with the southern dwarf siren (*Pseudobranchus axanthus*) which is found in peninsular Florida.
Name and etymology
Striatus: Latin for striped.
At a glance
Range
Coastal South Carolina, southern Georgia, and northern Florida.
Habitat
A secretive species that lives entirely underwater among aquatic vegetation or mud and debris in shallow swamps, ponds, and d…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap