Mudpuppy

/mˈʌd pˈʌpi/

[noun]

Mudpuppy

[NOUN]

a species of aquatic salamander with a stout body, external gills, and paddle-like feet

synonyms : Necturus maculosus

What is a "mudpuppy"?

A mudpuppy, also known as the waterdog, is a fascinating amphibian found in freshwater habitats of North America. It has a unique appearance, with a stout body, smooth skin, and external gills that allow it to breathe underwater. Mudpuppies are primarily nocturnal and are known for their ability to regrow lost body parts. They have strong jaws and feed on a variety of prey, including insects, small fish, and crustaceans. Despite their somewhat intimidating name, mudpuppies are harmless to humans and play an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of their aquatic habitats.

larval salamander of mountain lakes of Mexico that usually lives without metamorphosing

synonyms : Ambystoma mexicanum

axolotl

large salamander of North American rivers and streams

synonyms : Cryptobranchus alleganiensis

hellbender

Examples

1. Now, the mudpuppy appears as if it is stuck in a perpetual state of larva form.

2. Okay, let's bring the mudpuppy up again, very gently.

3. All right, it is time to get mudpuppy back into the creek.

4. Most salamanders species start off as larva with gills and stay beneath the water, but the mudpuppy never loses those gills, and is in an aquatic environment its entire life.

Nearby words