Axolotls

The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a salamander that, unlike most amphibians, does not undergo metamorphosis: it keeps its aquatic larval form as an adult. The feathery structures on each side of its head are external gills that let it breathe underwater. Wild axolotls are usually dark; the pink-white colour common in aquariums is widespread in captive-bred lines.

Where does it live?

In the wild it lives only in the Xochimilco lake and canal system south of Mexico City. Historically it also lived in nearby Lake Chalco, which has largely been drained.

What does it eat?

It is a carnivore that eats small fish, worms, insect larvae and crustaceans. It catches prey by opening its mouth quickly and sucking in water.

Behaviour and social life

Axolotls live alone and mostly hide among plants on the lake bottom. In addition to gills, they have lungs and occasionally gulp air at the surface.

Young

The female attaches hundreds of eggs one by one to water plants. The young hatch as tiny larvae and grow quickly.

Conservation status

The axolotl is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List. Urban growth, water pollution, degraded canals and non-native fish released into the lakes (such as carp and tilapia) have greatly reduced wild populations. Although many axolotls live in laboratories and aquariums around the world, the wild population is very small.

Fun facts

• Axolotls are widely studied in scientific research on tissue regeneration.
• Its name comes from Nahuatl, the Aztec language, and is often translated as "water dog" or "water monster".
• The axolotl is one of Mexico's cultural symbols.