Two-toed Amphiuma

Scientific Name: Amphiuma means
Photo Credit: Kevin Stohlgren

The two-toed amphiuma is a large, eel-like salamander with small eyes and limbs, each leg ending in two toes, and dark brown to black color. Found in the coastal plain from Virginia to Louisiana, it inhabits swamps, streams, canals, and temporary bodies of water, often where debris is present. Juveniles eat small invertebrates, while adults consume a variety of prey including crayfish, insects, amphibians, and small reptiles. Females lay up to 200 eggs in winter or spring and typically remain coiled around them until they hatch 5–6 months later.

Explore the full species profile, including their habitat, diet, and behavior on Herps of NC.