Govind Tekale
The Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is an amphibian of Mexican origin that is critically endangered due to habitat loss, fishing, and the introduction of invasive species into its environment. This species is endemic to the lakes of the Valley of Mexico and currently survives in Lake Xochimilco. The ancient Mexicans called it axolotl (from Nahuatl, meaning “water monster”). It retains ancient characteristics of salamanders but is more closely related to frogs and toads, according to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat).
This creature possesses extraordinary abilities that remain mysterious to science: it reaches sexual maturity without changing its larval form and has the exceptional ability to regenerate lost limbs and even parts of its brain and heart. Although this amphibian can be both on the surface and underwater, it seems to have lost its desire to move on land, even though it has four legs that allow it to walk. As adults, they seek places very close to water but prefer to stay submerged. It also has a tail that it retains after metamorphosis. It only surfaces to breathe and immediately dives back into the lake.
The Mexican axolotl can be found in various colours, including black, mottled brown, albino, pinkish, or white. It retains its tadpole-like dorsal fin, which extends almost along its entire body, measuring between 15 and 30 centimetres in length. Its external gills, resembling feathers, protrude from the back of its broad head.
This unique salamander feeds on molluscs, worms, larvae, crustaceans, and the occasional fish. However, it is preyed upon by herons, but its main predator is humans, who have also introduced large fish into the Xochimilco Lake and its canals, threatening the axolotl’s survival. The threats to these animals are caused by habitat loss, the introduction of invasive species, overexploitation of water bodies, and pollution. According to authorities, if axolotls were to disappear, it would cause an imbalance in their entire ecosystem.
Similar Posts
Let’s remember that the natural home of the axolotl is Xochimilco, which has been affected by three main causes: the quality of the water, which has deteriorated due to poor management and pollution caused by visitors and some locals; the introduction of exotic species, such as carp and tilapia during the 1980s for aquaculture, which now feed on young axolotls and their eggs; and urbanisation, which is already encroaching on the chinampa area.
In addition to protecting their natural habitat and creating partnerships with local communities for their care, conservation spaces have also been established. A year ago, the ‘Axolotl Museum and Amphibians Conservation Centre’ was created at the Chapultepec Wildlife Conservation Center.
The axolotl is edging closer to extinction faster than anticipated. Despite the establishment of refuges in Xochimilco and the involvement of chinampa residents in rescue efforts, these measures alone are insufficient. The “Adopt Axolotl” project, initiated by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), allows individuals to virtually adopt an axolotl for 200 pesos, contributing directly to their preservation and the protection of their natural habitat. This program is open to anyone willing to help safeguard the axolotl’s ecosystem and promote its survival. As a society, we must prioritize respecting the natural habitats of these creatures and refrain from introducing invasive species that further endanger their existence.
According to the National Forestry Commission of Mexico (CONAFOR), the presence of this amphibian indicates clean water and a healthy ecosystem.
