It’s not an space most individuals would think about going for a dive with an underwater digicam, however in components of the Appalachian Mountains, there are some distinctive creatures. One in every of them is the Japanese Hellbender.
Regardless of the considerably dramatic identify, the Japanese Hellbender is definitely a really massive salamander.
Andrew Zimmerman, an underwater photographer primarily based within the Southeast, shared a current video of his seek for the creature.
Have a look:
The video begins with an overhead shot of Zimmerman, equipped as if he’s about to dive on a coral reef. The footage then cuts to an overhead shot of a river or creek that winds via the mountains, accompanied by the textual content, “In some Appalachian rivers, dragons nonetheless exist.”
Seconds later, he spots the Japanese Hellbender below a rock and captures putting footage of the animal swimming underwater.
The video ends with a slideshow of gorgeous photographs of the Hellbender, an virtually alien-like creature.
Extra In regards to the Japanese Hellbender
In line with the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, the Japanese Hellbender has a wide range of nicknames. They embody the Allegheny alligator, satan canine, and snot otter.
Hellbenders are considered one of three large salamander species on the earth. It will probably develop as much as 17 inches lengthy and weigh as much as three kilos. They reside below fallen bushes and flat rocks in fast-moving rivers and creeks, spending their time consuming fish and crayfish.
The group says recognizing the animal might be pretty uncommon, however in case you do see one, it’s an indication of fine water high quality.
“Hellbenders are tremendous delicate to silt, sedimentation, and water air pollution. Due to this, they’re thought of organic indicators of water high quality,” mentioned the NC Wildlife Federation. “Because the N.C. Wildlife Sources Fee (NCWRC) places it, ‘If there’s a wholesome Hellbender inhabitants in a stream, there’s clear water.’”
Would you go diving to identify these huge salamanders?