The Smiling Salamander

The smiling salamander, Axolotl!

What is axolotl?
The axolotl is a neotenic salamander. Although it is also known as Mexican walking fish, it is not a fish, it is an amphibian. The species was originally found in the complex of Lake Xochimilco, near Mexico City. It is famous for its limb regeneration ability.

Axolotl belongs to Animalia kingdom, Chordata phylum, Amphibia class, Urodela order, Ambystomatidae family, and Ambystoma genus. Its binomial name is Ambystoma mexicanum. Axolotl is also a member of Ambystoma tigrinum or tiger salamander.

Unlike the other amphibians, Axolotl doesn’t reach its adulthood through metamorphosis. This condition is called neoteny. Instead of developing lungs and taking to the land, adults remain aquatic and gilled.

Axolotl has external respirator which is three pairs of gill at the back of its head on both sides. The gills look like horns. Its height is 20-30 cm with 60-110 g weight. Female axolotl has a bigger body and a small round cloaca. Instead, the male axolotl has a thinner body and a bulging cloaca. It has four feet with five sharp small fingers each. Its tail resembles feathers which is used to swim. It has various body colors. It could be green, blackish, brown, and pink.

Axolotl is a solitary animal. It is carnivore. It eats some type of fish, Mollusca, and Arthropoda.

How does axolotl reproduce?

The Breeding of Axolotl

Life Cycle of Axolotl

The male axolotl will deposit 5-25 spermatophores in his habitat. Then, it will lure the female axolotl. They will dance and the male will lead the female over the sperm so she can pick them up and fertilize them. Then, the female will lay the eggs. After three weeks, the eggs will hatch. The offspring will grow up to do the same thing.

How are axolotls now?

As of 2010, axolotls' existence were near extinction due to urbanization in Mexico City and consequent water pollution, as well as the introduction of invasive species such as tilapia and perch. They are used extensively in scientific research. Axolotls were also sold as food in Mexican markets and were a staple in the Aztec diet. Their conservation status is critically endangered now. The city is currently working on conserving axolotls by building "axolotl shelters" and conserving remaining and potential habitats for the salamanders.


Post-test!
1. What class is axolotl?
2. Where does axolotl come from?
3. What's the difference between female and male axolotl?
4. How does axolotl reproduce?
5. Why is axolotl's conservation status critically endangered?