Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) — species profile (taxonomy, origin, lifespan, husbandry basics)
Authoritative first-hand species account (Animal Diversity Web, University of Michigan). All bullet facts are verbatim from the cited source and C1-substring verified.
Natural History & Origin
- is historically found in Lakes Chalco and Xochimilco of the Valley of Mexico near
- native, only Xochimilco (elevation: ~ 2,274 m) remains.
- been introduced into the lakes where axolotls are found, contributing to the demise
Habitat
- are large, relatively permanent (until recently), high-altitude lakes located near
- Of the two lakes - Chalco and Xochimilco - where these animals are historically
- aquatic salamanders, meaning they retain certain larval characteristics in the adult,
Size
- They possess feathery external gills and finned tails for swimming.
- Axolotls reach lengths on average of 20 cm (9 inches),
- but can grow to more than 30 cm (12 inches) in length.
Lifespan
- Expected laboratory longevity is 5 to 6 years; however, some animals have been known
- to live as long as 10 to 15 years.
- Historically, they have been known to live in high altitude lakes
Behavior & Social Structure
- Axolotls are solitary and may be active at any time of the day.
Reproduction
- is paedomorphic, which means that it retains larval characteristics in the reproductively
- Metamorphosis can be induced in axolotls
- In the wild, axolotls rarely, if ever, metamorphose.
Diet
- animal constituent of plankton; mainly small crustaceans and fish larvae.
- animals which must use heat acquired from the environment and behavioral adaptations