Common names:
Axolotl [1].
Classification:
Kingdom - Animalia
Phylum - Chordata
Class - Amphibia
Order - Caudata
Family - Ambystomatidae
Species - Ambystoma mexicanum
Distribution:
Ambystoma mexicanum is found only in central Mexico, on the southern edge of Mexico City (Figure 2) [1]. They inhabit the channels and wetlands on the outskirts of the city [1]. Reports of the axolotl inside the city and lakes in more rural areas have been found but not substantiated [1]. It's range is less than 10km2 [1].
Details:
The axolotl is endemic to the ancient water channels and lakes in and around Mexico City [1]. It requires deep water and abundant vegetation, up on which it lays its eggs [1]. Up to 300 eggs are laid separately, each encased in a jelly - they take around 10-14 days to hatch [2]. It lives its whole life in the water and does not undergo complete metamorphosis [1]. They reach sexual maturity at one year old [2]. The axolotl can regenerate any limb that may be lost during its lifetime, including all of the nervous tissue, and regain complete mobility [3]. They can grow up to 30cm in length [2]. They are the apex predator, without introduced species, eating invertebrates and fish [2].
There are a number of efforts to educate the public and increase knowledge through nature tourism to the Lake Xochimilco, where a number of individuals reside [1]. Efforts are also being made to restore these habitats [1]. It is listed on CITES appendix II and there is a species action plan [1]. There are a number of captive populations across the world but reintroduction is not recommended until threats are resolved [1].
Threats to the species:
Urbanisation and development [1].
Tourism and recreation [1].
Pollution [1].
Hunting for international trade, medicinal, and traditional consumption [1].
Disease [1].
Introduced species [1].
Climate change [1].
Similar species:
References:
[1] IUCN Red List. (2010). Axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/1095/3229615. [Accessed 5 May 2019].
[2] Animal Diversity. (2003). Ambystoma mexicanum. [ONLINE] Available at: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Ambystoma_mexicanum/. [Accessed 5 May 2019].
[3] Monaghan, J. R. et al. (2007) ‘Early gene expression during natural spinal cord regeneration in the salamander Ambystoma mexicanum’, Journal of Neurochemistry, 101(1), pp. 27–40.
Photo: TrekNature. (2011). Axolotl. [ONLINE]. Available at: https://www.treknature.com/gallery/photo252900.htm [Accessed 5 May 2019].
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