What Is an Axolotl?

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, are an aquatic salamander species that inhabits freshwater habitats. They are native to the lakes around Mexico City, and are easily recognizable for their large eyes, wrinkled skin, wide head, and long tails. The axolotl is famous for its ability to regenerate its limbs and organs, making it a popular pet and subject of medical research.

Axolotls are one of five species of the Ambystoma genus. They are sometimes called the Mexican salamander, Mexican Walking Fish, or Water Monster. Axolotl is taken from a Nahuatl term that means “prince of water” or “water-dog” in English.

Axolotls Are Remarkable Creatures

Axolotls live in water and can breathe through their gills like a fish, but they can also “walk” on land. They spend most of their time at the bottom of the lake and are slow swimmers. The adults reach about a foot in length, with some specimens growing up to 18 inches.

Axolotls have an interesting color pattern: they range from white to dark gray, with black or brown spots. Some specimens have a brown or light yellow hue. They can also change colors in response to their environment, becoming lighter or darker depending on the temperature of the water, for example.

Axolotls can regenerate their limbs, spinal cord, and other organs after injury, a process that cannot be seen in other amphibians or vertebrates. They can also grow new organs if they have lost any because of disease or mutation. This makes them a popular species for medical research and also has made them a popular pet.

Caring For Axolotls

Axolotls are fairly easy to keep as pets, but they do require consistent care. They need an aquarium that is at least 20 gallons, with the temperature kept balanced between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The tank should have a filtration system, plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress, and a low to moderate amount of light.

Axolotls are carnivorous and need to eat live food. They typically feed on earthworms, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other small aquatic life. It is important to provide them with a varied diet and not overfeed them as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.

Axolotls are fascinating creatures that can be kept as pets. They are hardy and require minimal maintenance, so long as their environment and diet are properly taken care of. With their remarkable ability to regenerate tissue, axolotls are fun to watch and observe in the aquarium.