Axolotl.

An adorable endangered creature that can regrow its own heart.

Photo by T K on Unsplash

Origin

Meet the lovable, scientifically fascinating and critically endangered axolotl, named after the ancient Aztec god, Xolotl, who was said to have the ability to transform into a salamander.

The axolotl’s habitat was a system of interconnected wetlands and lakes in the Mexican highlands. Unfortunately, most of these habitats were lost when the Spanish settlers drained these waterways after the conquest of the Aztec Empire.

About

Interestingly enough, the axolotl has a rare case of neotony, or slowed development. This causes them to retain the majority of their larval features into maturity, rather than undergoing metamorphasis like a tadpole turning into a frog would.

These creatures are of a deep interest among biologists. The axolotl actually has the ability to regenerate limbs. For example, if one were to lose a foot or whole leg, they could simply grow it back in a shockingly short period of time. And not just limbs! They can even regrow damaged heart tissue, spinal cords, brain, eyes and even their lungs!

Understanding how and why this happens could advance biological research, medicine, and the treatment of certain diseases significantly.

The conservation of any endangered species is of utmost cruciality to our entire ecosystem without a doubt, and this itself is a reason to support such efforts, not simply because of the potential to help ourselves. However, due to its biological restorative abilities, the conservation of this species could possibly revolutionize biology and medicinal advancements as we know them, providing yet another reason for scientists to make greater conservation efforts.

Threats

The axolotl has faced a steep decrease in numbers within recent years. According to Mexican biologist Luis Zambrano, there were 6,000 axolotls per square kilometer in the Xochimilco lake complex in 1998.

Today there is estimated to be between 50 and 1,000 wild axolotls.

This is for several reasons. A huge spike in Water pollution caused by rapid development in Mexico city has made the waters inhospitable to aquatic life.

Overfishing and the consumption of axolotls has been detrimental to the survival of these creatures. In the Aztec culture, they were often roasted and eaten— considered a delicacy. It is currently illegal to consume wild axolotls in Mexico.

Habitat loss by the draining of lakes and wetlands by the Spanish settlers had significant impact on the species. Axolotls in the wild now only live in the canals of Lake Xochimilco.

Invasive species suchs as tilapia and carp overpopulate the axolotls’ habitat, competing for space and food with the axolotl and feeding on their young. They were initially introduced for fish farming but have since gotten out of hand.

Conservation Efforts

Despite being critically endangered, the axolotl still has hope. Environmental groups and the government are working to clean and restore the ancient canals of Xochimilco. Scientists are still researching and studying, trying to understand how we can best help the species.

Though there are many axolotls in captivity for breeding purposes in an attempt to aid the species, scientists are worrying this could have long term affects on the species, weakening their biological regenerative abilities. It is becoming more and more important that we learn to take care of their wild habitat.

The chinampa is a technique used in mesoamerican agriculture that relies on small rectangular artifical ‘islands’, which are layered mud and vegetation on rafts of branches, creating a sustainable farming system.

This resource is a component in the conservation of this species, as the axolotls now reside on these ‘floating islands’. It provides better habitat for them, giving them safe shelter, food, and rich vegetation, acting as a safe haven for axolotls.

The chinampa is also organic, no pesticides that pollute the waters. Overall, they are still only being developed in small sections of the vast Xochimilco. This solution is small— not yet enough to reverse the decline.

What you can do about it

This species is not extinct. It is not dead. And we have not lost hope for it. Our individual impact matters, even if it’s small.

• Donate or volunteer with organizations working to restore the wetlands of Xochimilco, such as Umbral Axochiatl Xochimilco

• Raise. Awareness. Spreading the word about things like these is exactly how change occurs. Spreading awareness about the environment and about endangered species is absolutely crucial. We can’t help something we don’t know exists. Give this post a restack or a share!

• Reduce pollution! Volunteer for a local or beach cleanup. Even if it doesn’t affect the axolotl directly, everything we do affects our ecosystem in some way. Biodegradable products and limiting plastic pollution is important to every animal (including humans) on this planet.

• Avoid invasive species impact. Do NOT release a non-native species into the wild. If it does not belong there, do NOT put it there. Be mindful of the living things you discard, as this can have very bad outcomes for nature.

• Educate yourself and others. If you’re interested in the topic, dig deeper! Read about it and do your own research if you would like. Knowledge is power!

What do you think about the axolotl’s regenerative abilities? Did you learn something new! Please share in the comments, I love your feedback!