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With their whimsical appearances, distinctive colors, and prominent eyes reminiscent of salamanders, axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are enjoying a surge in popularity. Not only is axolotl-themed merchandise widely available online, but there are also opportunities to symbolically adopt one. Their appeal, particularly among pet enthusiasts, seems to be rising swiftly.
During a visit to family in Philadelphia, ecologist Alejandra Ramos González, who conducts research on these amphibians at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UNAM), presented informative talks about axolotls to eager elementary students. “I was surprised by how much the children in the U.S. adore axolotls!” Ramos González shared.
To understand this fascination, she turned to her niece, Elena, who is 11 years old. “Axolotls are only found in one location, which makes them special. Plus, they look really cute and funny!” Elena remarked.
The fact that these critically endangered creatures exist solely in a single aquatic ecosystem emphasizes their susceptibility. Climate change threatens amphibians like axolotls, but greater awareness of their environmental needs can play a pivotal role in conservation.
Recent research involving 18 captive-bred axolotls indicates they can thrive in select natural wetlands in Mexico. The results of this study, published on April 30 in PLOS One, open new potential pathways for the conservation of these captivating animals.
Understanding Axolotls
Named after the Aztec deity Xolotl, these amphibians inhabit Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City. They can reach a maximum weight of half a pound and grow up to nearly a foot in length. Their diet primarily consists of insect larvae, worms, small fish, and crustaceans. The feathery structures on their heads are external gills; although adults have lungs, they primarily rely on their gills for respiration.
Unlike most amphibians that undergo metamorphosis and transition to land, the axolotl is often referred to as the “Peter Pan of amphibians” as it retains larval features throughout its life, remaining aquatic as an adult.
These creatures are housed in various zoos and aquariums worldwide, making them ideal subjects for laboratory studies. However, their natural behavior remains less understood. “Though axolotls are extensively studied in the lab, their wild behavior is largely uncharted,” explained Luis Zambrano, an ecologist from UNAM and co-author of the recent study. “This research is one of the first steps in decoding axolotl behavior in their native habitat, which is crucial for ecological restoration efforts.”
[ Related: Go (virtually) adopt an axolotl, the ‘Peter Pan’ of amphibians. ]
Releasing the Axolotls
In the new study, the research team selected 18 axolotls, comprising nine males and nine females, bred at the Laboratorio de Restauración Ecológica in Mexico City, for release into both restored and artificial wetlands.
“We wanted a balanced sample, including various age groups, to understand both younger and older axolotls,” noted Ramos González, a co-author of the study. “All subjects were of the wild-type morph, known for its darker coloration associated with the Xochimilco population.”
The axolotls were released into two specific habitats in southern Mexico City: a restored area of Lake Xochimilco and a pond in the artificial wetland of La Cantera Oriente. Using VHF telemetry, the team tracked their movements and analyzed several released axolotls at the study’s conclusion.
The study revealed that axolotls in both habitats survived well and foraged successfully, with some even gaining weight post-release. In the artificial pond, these animals covered greater distances. Water temperature appeared to significantly influence their movements; in Lake Xochimilco, activity peaked at around 61 degrees Fahrenheit, while in La Cantera Oriente, it was optimal at approximately 59.9 °F.
“Interestingly, older axolotls in Xochimilco tended to travel shorter distances daily in comparison to their younger counterparts,” said Ramos González. “Though the reason remains uncertain, it’s possible that older axolotls, through experience, can identify and maintain high-quality territories with ample food, thus reducing the need for extensive foraging.”
Towards Effective Conservation
The research team suggests that artificial wetlands, such as La Cantera Oriente, may provide a potential conservation strategy for axolotls. They could create stable environments to counteract habitat degradation and other adverse impacts caused by climate change.
“Aquatic animals, including many salamanders, face severe threats from habitat loss and pollution,” explained Ramos González and Zambrano. “The proximity of human habitation to water sources exacerbates these issues, making amphibians like axolotls exceptionally vulnerable.”
Further studies are underway to investigate the social dynamics of axolotls and their temperature preferences to better grasp their behavioral ecology and habitat requirements moving forward. Additionally, axolotl enthusiasts can symbolically adopt an axolotl through the university, with proceeds supporting research and habitat restoration. Understanding these creatures and restoring their natural habitats is crucial for the long-term survival of the species.
“While axolotls can survive in controlled environments, genuine conservation hinges on safeguarding their native habitats,” concluded Ramos González and Zambrano.
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