Axolotl
Scientific Name: Ambystoma mexicanum
Habitat: Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco in Mexico
Diet: worms, small fish, insects, crustaceans, arthropods
Life span: 5–6 years average, up to 15
Young: 200–1000 eggs
Size: 15–45 cm (6–18 in); average 23 cm (9 in)
The two lakes that axolotls are native to have been drained for drinking water and agriculture.
Wild populations typically have green and black striped colouration, similar to their close relative, the tiger salamander.
Unlike other amphibians, they do not usually complete their metamorphosis, remaining gill-breathing even when mature.
Axolotls are often used as laboratory research animals because they heal without scar tissue and they can regenerate limbs.
Learn more about this species:
These are some other websites that we think have more great information about this species.
Axolotl on Animal Diversity Web
For More Information
Edmonton Valley Zoo
13315 Buena Vista Road (87th Avenue)
PO Box 2359
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2R7
| attractions@edmonton.ca |
Range
Range: Lakes Xochimilco and Chalco, Mexico
Status in the Wild
Status: endangered
