The salamander (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a species of amphibian that lives in several regions of Mexico, especially in the canal system from Xochimilco. It is characterized by its ability to regenerate certain parts of the body and its peculiar appearance. Likewise, the species can live 30 years in captivity, as long as it receives the indicated care.
Despite being one of the most influential animals in Mexican culture, the species is critically endangered. In the next article on our site, we will tell you the reasons that explain why the axolotl is in danger of extinction and we will show you possible solutions to improve its conservation status.
Characteristics of the axolotl
The axolotl is known as “the walking fish”. It is a vertebrate that reaches 23 centimeters in length, has a broad head and rounded eyes, small and without eyelids. The tone of their skin varies, most of the time the specimens have shades of dark brown with a black back and a lighter belly, in addition to having inconspicuous dark spots; although one of the most popular is the albino axolotl, which is pinkish-white in color. An element to highlight are its three pairs of gills, which start at the base of its head and reach its back.
The species is found in central Mexico and prefers habitats where there are lakes, since it dives into the depths. It can also be found in the flora found around these lakes.
It is a carnivorous animal, so it feeds on small animals such as fish, worms, insects and almost any living thing it can catch. In addition, it can sometimes exhibit cannibalistic behavior, that is, it feeds on individuals of its own species. For more details, don't miss this article: "What does the axolotl eat?".
Despite being considered a typical Mexican animal, various causes threaten this species, so in the following section we present information about the endangered axolotl.
Conservation status of the axolotl
Since 2006, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Mexican axolotl as one of the critically endangered animalsThis situation is due to various causes, such as the fragmentation of the habitat caused by the existence of subpopulations of isolated animals, the destruction of the ecosystem, among others. Currently, the situation is so critical that the exact number of specimens that exist in their natural habitat is not known for sure. However, it is estimated that by 2014 there were a total of 36 living specimens, so drastic action must be taken if you want to save this species from the serious danger it is in.
In this sense, there are organizations such as the Reserva Ecologica del Pedregal, belonging to the University of the Americas (UNAM), which has a axolotl shelter with the aim of multiplying the number of specimens in a controlled manner. However, the problem must be attacked from the root, which means that it is necessary to stop the introduction of alien species to the axolotl habitat, in addition to maintaining policies and actions to reduce the pollution of the rivers where this species is found.
Causes of the endangered axolotl
If you want to find a solution to the danger this species is facing, you need to know in detail the reasons why the axolotl is becoming extinct. Thus, below we explain why the axolotl is in danger of extinction:
Habitat degradation and pollution
The greatest danger is pollution product of fishing activities which has deteriorated the quality of the waters where the axolotl lives. Also the destruction of the fauna on which it could feed, a phenomenon caused by the increase in agricultural production.
Illegal commerce
The illegal sale of axolotls is another reason why the axolotl is in danger of extinction and, unfortunately, it is an activity that continues to increase day by day. In Mexico, trade in the species is carried out mainly for consumption, as it is common to prepare exotic dishes with various parts of its body. In addition, this situation is strengthened due to the cheap prices that can be found in the market, which encourages more people to acquire it easily every day.
Introduction of exotic species in their habitat
We know that all living things are part of complex systems and habitats in which they interact to develop and maintain life. However, once these systems are altered or invaded by external agents, they tend to break.
In the case of the axolotl, another factor that has contributed to harming its existence is the presence of exotic species that have been introduced into its area of life, which has caused a considerable reduction in the number of copies.
How to help the endangered axolotl?
We know that there is no single solution to save the axolotl from extinction, but that a set of actions must be carried out aimed at preserving nature, only in this way will beneficial results be obtained to achieve a significant change.
Some of these actions that can help the axolotl to save itself from the danger of extinction are:
- Promote government organization to preserve and protect the natural habitat of axolotls.
- Establish measures to avoid illegal trade of the species.
- Raise awareness among the inhabitants to not damage ecosystems and avoid agricultural activities in vulnerable areas.
- Support independent actions that seek to preserve and increase the population of the axolotl.
Like all animals in danger of extinction, the axolotl is a wonderful species that is on the verge of disappearing due to human activity, so it is in our hands to redirect the situation to prevent this end happens. In the following article we share more actions and measures that can be carried out: "How to protect animals in danger of extinction?".
And if you want to know the most endangered species in Mexico, don't miss this other one: "The 12 most endangered animals in Mexico".
