There are many strange animals on our planet, but none of them are quite like the axolotl. There are many things that separate it from normal salamanders, which is why we will be talking about them today

What is a Axolotl?

The axolotl, or Ambystoma mexicanum, is a type of salamander from the class Amphibia. They are most commonly confused with young tiger salamanders, due to their similar bodies. However, given the fact that most axolotls are a pinkish-white color, it's usually pretty easy to tell them apart.

All axolotls live in Lake Xochimilco. Their habitat is pretty unsafe, mainly because of contamination and large fish being introduced in the lake. These events are slowly decreasing the axolotl population, making them a critically endangered species

Lake-sweet-Lake

As mentioned earlier, axolotls have pinkish-white skin. The tops of their heads are flat and have feathery gills on each side of it. Unlike most salamanders, axolotls retain their tadpole-like bodies throughout their whole life. Axolotls can move up to 10 mph, but they rarely ever move this fast. They can also regenerate any injured or removed limbs. Scientists are still wondering how and why they can do this.

How They Look

As I said earlier, axolotls are able to regrow detached or injured limbs. They can also remove their limbs anytime they want. They use this technique to get away from any predators that they come across.

Limbs of Steel (sort of)

Axolotls have adapted in many ways. For example, their tadpole-like bodies help them move easily in the water. If a axolotl lives in shallow water, their will grow lungs and learn to breathe on land. Their colors also help them blend in with their environment.

Pink Does More Than You Think

Axolotls are usually pretty solitary animals. They very rarely communicate throughout the year. But when they do, they communicate through visual cues and chemicals. They also use these behaviors to find food.

How They Behave