The greater siren (Siren lacertina) is an eel-like amphibian. The largest of the Sirens and are one of the largest amphibians in North America. They measure around 1.5 cm (0.59 in) in length upon hatching and then grow to lengths ranging from 18 to 97 cm (7.1 to 38 in). Weight can range from 55 to 1,000 g (1.9 to 35 oz). They range in color from black to brown, and have a lighter gray or yellow underbelly.
Younger sirens also have a light stripe along their side, which fades with age. They have large gills and no hind legs. The front legs, each with four toes, are so small that they can be hidden in the gills. S. lacertina are generally carnivorous and eats annelids, insects, snails, and small fishes, although they have also been observed to eat vegetation. They use a lateral line sense organ for finding prey. There is some debate over whether it is a true salamander.
They live from Washington, D.C., to Florida. Females lay eggs between February and March, as many as to 500. The eggs hatch two months later. The method of egg fertilization is currently unknown. They are nocturnal and adults spend the day under debris and rocks or burrowed in mud or thick vegetation. Young are often seen amid water hyacinth roots. Adults are sometimes caught at night by fishermen. When drought strikes, the sirens can aestivate in mud burrows and their bodies secrete a moisture-sealing cocoon over the body. Captive longevity can last up to 25 years.
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