Meet the snot otter, the US's ancient and unique salamander

Meet the snot otter, the US's ancient and unique salamander Scuba diving scientists are scouring riverbeds for the elusive, endangered hellbender – also known as the snot otter, or lasagna lizard – to give them a fighting chance of survival. The hellbender, a species of giant salamander native to the United States, is facing the threat of extinction. To help conserve this ancient creature, scientists are taking to the water in an effort to study and protect the struggling population. Often referred to as the snot otter or lasagna lizard due to its slimy appearance, the hellbender is a creature of historical significance. It is one of the largest salamander species in the world, with some individuals reaching lengths of over two feet. However, despite its impressive size, the hellbender is a shy and elusive creature, hiding beneath rocks and crevices in streams and rivers. This behavior, coupled with habitat degradation and pollution, has contributed to their decline in numbers. To better understand the plight of the hellbender, a team of scientists has turned to scuba diving in order to study their habitat and behavior. Armed with underwater cameras and tracking devices, these researchers are venturing into the murky depths to document the lives of the snot otters. One of the primary goals of this research is to locate and protect hellbender nesting sites. These underwater refuges are crucial to the survival of the