Fauna
Amphibian · GBIF taxon 2431950

Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum

Also known as Mexican Walking Fish, Mexican Salamander

Axolotls are unique mole salamanders that retain their larval traits, including feathery external gills and a dorsal swimming fin, throughout their entire adult lives. Endemic to the ancient lake bed and canal systems of Xochimilco near Mexico City, these fully aquatic amphibians are world-renowned for their extraordinary capacity to regenerate limbs, heart tissue, and parts of their brain. Their wild populations face severe peril from urban encroachment, water pollution, and introduced predatory fish.

AquaticNeotenicEndemic
Axolotl reference1 / 3
Licensed reference(c) Stan Shebs, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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Critically EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXCritically EndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Freshwater Snails
  • Insect Larvae
  • Small Fish
Predators
  • Herons
  • Invasive Tilapia
  • Invasive Carp
ThreatsHabitat loss, pollution, urbanization, invasive predatory fish
HabitatsHigh-altitude freshwater lakes and canal systems
Life span10–15 years
Classification
  1. OrderCaudata
  2. FamilyAmbystomatidae
  3. GenusAmbystoma
  4. SpeciesAmbystoma mexicanum
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice
Recognized by six feathery external gill stalks flanking a broad head, lidless eyes, and a long tail fin.
Support conservation
Never disturb remaining wild habitats in canal systems, and observe captive individuals without direct physical contact.
Responsible observation
  • Observe quietly: Watch their slow movements in clear freshwater habitats without disturbing the water surface.
  • Avoid touching: Their delicate skin readily absorbs harmful oils, soaps, and pathogens from human hands.
  • Prevent releases: Never release captive amphibians into local waterways to avoid spreading deadly fungal diseases.
Related species
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