Tiger Salamander (neotenic adult or large larva)
Ambystoma tigrinum · Amphibian, vertebrate, cold-blooded, wild
Animal Family
Family Ambystomatidae, order Urodela, class Amphibia
Animal Category
Reptile/Amphibian
Breed / Variety
Eastern Tiger Salamander morph
Conservation Status
IUCN Least Concern with stable to decreasing local populations, threatened primarily by habitat loss and introduction of predatory fish
About This Creature
Large salamander with a stout body, broad head, small eyes, short limbs, and a laterally flattened tail adapted for swimming; olivaceous green-brown coloration with smooth, slimy skin
Physical Characteristics
Wide head, small protruding eyes, short legs with small digits, prominent dorsal fin extending along the back and tail, and external gills visible near the neck
Behavior & Temperament
Aquatic and secretive, mostly active at night, voracious ambush predator, relies on camouflage and toxic skin secretions for defense
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
North America, spanning across the United States, southern Canada, and parts of Mexico
Habitat
Freshwater ponds, marshes, and temporary pools; semi-aquatic with neotenic forms remaining permanently aquatic
Diet & Nutrition
Carnivorous, feeding on aquatic insects, small fish, tadpoles, crustaceans, and worms, captured by sudden suction feeding
Lifespan & Health
Lifespan ranges from 10 to 15 years in the wild, longer in captivity; susceptible to chytrid fungus and habitat pollution
Special Characteristics
Capable of neoteny where individuals retain larval gill structures and remain aquatic throughout their lives instead of transforming into terrestrial adults
Ecological Information
Acts as an important secondary consumer and apex predator in temporary pond ecosystems, helping to regulate insect and amphibian populations