A small relative of the larger amphiuma — only ~7 inches long. Restricted to a small range. Like its cousin, can deliver a painful bite.

Native status: Native to Gulf Coast

§ Quick facts

SizeTotal length 20–35 cm
Weight15–80 g
LifespanWild 15+ years
OrderCaudata
FamilyAmphiumidae

§ Encyclopedia

The one-toed amphiuma is a species of aquatic, eel-like salamander in the family Amphiumidae. The species is native to the southeastern United States. It was unknown to science until 1950, when it was collected by herpetologist Wilfred T. Neill, who described it as a new species in 1964. It is rarely observed in the wild, and much about the species remains uncertain.

Source: Wikipedia — Amphiuma pholeter Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Eel-like aquatic salamander; tiny single-toed legs; dark gray to brown.

Similar species. Two-toed Amphiuma (two toes; broader range). Three-toed Amphiuma (three toes; broader range).

Voice. Can deliver painful bite when handled.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Aquatic invertebrates, crayfish, small fish.

Behavior. Smallest amphiuma species. Eel-like aquatic salamander with vestigial legs (single toe per leg, giving species name). Restricted to specific Gulf Coast habitat.

§ Range

Florida Panhandle, Georgia, Alabama

§ Habitat

Swampy backwaters, sphagnum bogs

§ Threats

Wetland loss, water quality decline, mosquito control programs.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the one-toed amphiuma is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support southeastern swamp protection. Don't fill seasonal wetlands.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • Davidson College Herpetology Lab
  • IUCN Red List 2014