Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum

The axolotl is a special kind of salamander that never grows up completely! It can stay young and playful all its life while living in water.

Habitat: Lakes and canals in Mexico

Appearance

The Axolotl has a unique flattened head and a broad mouth, with lidless eyes that give it a perpetually smiling look. Its most distinctive feature is the three pairs of feathery external gills that sprout from either side of its head, often appearing pink, red, or dark depending on its coloration.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAmphibiaOrderCaudataFamilyAmbystomatidaeGenusAmbystoma

Axolotl

Interesting facts

Axolotls can breathe using both their feathery gills and simple lungs!

Some can change their skin color to blend in with their underwater world!

They are actually a type of salamander that never grows up!

Wild axolotls are critically endangered in their only natural lake home.

Special abilities

Axolotl can regrow lost limbs, jaws, and even parts of its brain because of special cells that help repair damage.

Axolotl has the power of neoteny, meaning it stays in its aquatic larval form for its entire life.

Axolotl can heal major injuries and lost body parts without forming any scars, due to unique cellular processes.

Measurements & details

Length: 15-45 cm
Weight: 0.06-0.3 kg
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Top Speed: 1 km/h
Clutch Size: 300-1000

Diet & Feeding

Tiny hunters, they snack on insects, worms, and small fish in their watery home.

Primary Foods

worms
small fish
insect larvae
crustaceans

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

eaten by

Nile Tilapia

Oreochromis niloticus

Introduced fish that preys on axolotls.

eaten by

Goldfish

Carassius auratus

Introduced species that eats axolotl eggs.

hunts

Sludge worm

Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri

A common food source for axolotls.

depends on

Yellow Waterlily

Nymphaea mexicana

Provides shelter and surfaces for egg-laying.

Traits

Webbed Feet

These animals have special feet with skin between their toes, which helps them swim super fast!

Colorful

Discover amazing plants and animals that show off a dazzling array of bright and beautiful hues! They use their vibrant colors to attract attention or send signals.

Ambush Predator

Meet masters of surprise! These clever hunters hide quietly and wait patiently for their prey to come close before pouncing with a quick move.

Ancient Lineage

These fascinating organisms carry echoes of the deep past, with ancestors that have roamed the Earth for an incredible span of time. They are living links to ancient worlds!

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Freshwater

Discover animals and plants that live in non-salty water, like rivers, lakes, and ponds! These watery homes are vibrant with life.

Regenerative

Imagine if you could grow back a lost arm or tail! Some incredible creatures have the power to regrow body parts, making them truly amazing survivors in nature.