A Guide to Axolotls

Axolotl —Ambystoma mexicanum
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered conservation status, critically endangered
Wild Axolotol
Photograph of wild coloration axolotl in captivity
Feature Description Additional Info
Habitat Mexico City, Mexico Native to the canals and lakes of Xochimilco
Regeneration Ability to regrow limbs and organs Highly studied in scientific research
Behavior Solitary and nocturnal Prefers cool, still water environments

About

Axolotls (pronounced AX-oh-lot-ul) are a unique species of salamander native to the lakes of Xochimilco in Mexico. Unlike most amphibians, they remain in their aquatic larval form throughout their lives. Renowned for their remarkable regenerative abilities, axolotls can regrow entire limbs, spinal cord segments, and even parts of their hearts and brains.

Their natural habitat has been severely impacted by habitat degradation, urbanization, and pollution, leaving them critically endangered in the wild. However, axolotls are also well-represented in captivity, where they are increasingly popular as pets due to their unique appearance and relatively low maintenance needs.

  • Diet: Carnivorous; feeds on small fish, worms, and insects
  • Lifespan: 10-15 years in captivity
  • Size: Typically 6-18 inches in length
  • Color Variations: In captivity, axolotls come in various colors, including albino (white with pink gills), leucistic (pale pink with black eyes), and melanoid (dark, almost black).
Golden Axolotol
Axolotl photo by John P. Clare

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