Like all neotenic Ambystoma species, A. andersoni retains its larval features into adulthood.

The mature salamander has medium-sized external gills with bright red filaments, and a prominent caudal fin.

Its coloration is a strange pattern of black blotches on a red-brown base.

The salamanders are totally aquatic and spend their whole lives in the same body of water.

The lake is located within the Mesa Central portion of Mexico, an area home to many neotenic Ambystoma species.