Bizarre-Looking Mexican Water Monster Faces Extinction
Although beauty is in the eye of the beholder, most would agree that the Mexican axolotl has a very unique appearance! The strange-looking salamander, also known as the Mexican Water Monster, is facing extinction.
According to a recent study conducted by scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), it is estimated that only 700 to 1,200 Mexican axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum, exist in the wild today. The situation is critical and urgent action is required.
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Mexican axolotl
There are seven species belonging to the Ambystoma genus. The Mexican axolotl, endemic to Mexico, is the only species that lives its entire life in larval form, a condition known as neoteny. The feathery gills protrude from the back of its head and the dorsal fin runs almost the entire length of its body. The Mexican axolotl, pronounced ACK-suh-LAH-tuhl, does not develop protruding eyes or other characteristics common in other adult salamanders.
This fascinating creature lives entirely in water and is able to regenerate its own body parts. It is often studied by scientists in labs for its healing and regenerative abilities and is a favorite “pet” for schools and children. The Mexican axolotl can live up to 15 years in the wild and can grow up to 12 inches in length.
Mexican axolotl Threats
Listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, the amphibian faces many threats. A few of the threats include pollution, predatory birds, introduction of non-native fish such as carp and tilapia, sewage, drought, exotic pet trade, climate change, severe weather and more. In some parts of Mexico, axolotl is considered a dinner table delicacy.
Reintroduction is not a viable option for the salamander due to the increased risk of disease, including Chytridiomycosis, a fatal condition for amphibians.
The study, Recent decline and potential distribution in the last remnant area of microendemic Mexican axolotl, was published in the journal Biological Conservation.
Albino axolotl photo by Orizatriz via CC
Photo of Mexican axolotl LPEstrela via Flickr
