Northern Dwarf Siren
Pseudobranchus striatus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAmphibia · Caudata · Sirenidae
About
The northern dwarf siren is a perennibranch salamander lacking hind legs. Found in the Southeastern United States, it one of two currently recognized species of dwarf sirens. Three subspecies are currently recognized; P. s. striatus, the broad-striped dwarf siren, P. s. lustricolus, the Gulf Hammock dwarf siren, and P. s. spheniscus, the slender dwarf siren.
Fun Fact
Northern dwarf sirens can survive drought by burrowing into damp mud and secreting a protective mucous cocoon around their bodies until rain returns.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live in shallow ditches, cypress swamps, and weed-choked ponds on the coastal plains of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
Diet
Feed on tiny invertebrates, and during droughts, encase themselves in mud beneath the pond bottom.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance