What are Axolotls?
The Axolotl is a critically endangered exotic sea species found in only one place in Mexico! Axolotls are very sensitive, which makes it easy for them to hurt themselves. In total, there are about 50-1,000 axolotls left in the world.
How did Axolotls get their unique name?
Axolotls were named after the Aztec Xolotl, the god of fire and lightning, who could take the form of a sea salamander. Xolotl was also associated with domestic animals - specifically the dog - and atl is the Aztec word for water, so Axolotl is translated to water dog!
Fun facts!
The feather-like antennae on an Axolotl's head are their gills!
Axolotls are carnivores and nocturnal hunters!
Axolotls never outgrow their juvenile features, even in adulthood!
Axolotls are solitary animals, meaning they travel on their own!
Axolotls lay around 200-1000 eggs! That’s a lot!
Why are Axolotls critically endangered?
Droughts have a major impact on lots of animals, but for one that depends on water, it can be a whole lot worse! Droughts cause the Axolotl’s habitat to dry up and force the creatures to move into deeper, dangerous waters. Humans also have a huge impact on an Axolotl’s health. By developing more structures and factories, pollution and global warming are raised, slowly damaging the Axolotl’s ecosystem. Waste water disposal also causes harm to the Axolotl’s home.
Why are Axolotls worth saving?
Other than being an adorable, fan-favorite sea salamander, they can control the population of numerous, small sea floor species, balancing the delicate ecosystem that, without proper care, could negatively affect us humans as well.
Comentarios