Our Axolotl

16 Jul 2022

An Axolotl has taken up residence in science, this is an aquatic neotenic salamander meaning it never leaves the underwater stage in its lifecycle.
This is because it lacks a chemical compound containing iodine within its body and diet and has no way of safely synthesising it. 

Axolotl’s are native to Mexico but on the brink of extinction, (critically endangered) the lake that they originate from has all but dried up and they can now only be found in the wild in the canals of Mexico city.  They are an incredibly interesting species as they have the ability to regenerate almost every part of their anatomy if destroyed, including their eyes. 

Unsure on sex, but suggestions for a name from students are welcome and encouraged.

Picture attached in case you have no idea what an Axolotl is. Ours is a wildtype, so much darker than the picture.