Physical characteristics 

The Ozark Hellbender is a subspecies of the Hellbender.  An Ozark Hellbender adult can range in size from 11 to 21 inches long (Ozark Hellbender, n.d.) , making them smaller than the Eastern Hellbender. Ozark Hellbenders have broad flat heads with two small lidless eyes, and a vertically flattened tail. (Ozark hellbender, n.d.) They also have wrinkled folds of skin on the sides of their bodies and legs. Ozark Hellbenders have gill slits hidden under each side of their head. (Ozark hellbender, n.d)

Their body color can vary. Both Juveniles and adults can have gray brown to olive green coloring with large dark blotches. (Ozark hellbender, n.d.) They often have black marks over their lip and chin. Ozark's also have a uniform dark tan or gray brown belly. (Ozark Hellbender, n.d.)