Fun Facts

Fun Facts About Axolotls You Might Not Know

Axolotls, those fascinating, smiley creatures that look like they belong in a fantasy world, have captivated the hearts of many. Known for their ability to regenerate limbs and retain their juvenile features throughout their lives, these little amphibians are truly remarkable.

1. They’re Always Babies
   Axolotls never fully undergo metamorphosis. Unlike other amphibians, which undergo a transformation from larvae to adult, axolotls retain their juvenile features throughout their lives, a phenomenon called neoteny.
2. Regeneration Masters
   Axolotls can regenerate entire limbs, spinal cord sections, heart tissue, and even parts of their brain! This ability makes them a subject of intense scientific research.
3. They Can Regrow Their Heart
   Not only can axolotls regenerate their limbs, but they can also grow back their heart! It’s one of the most astonishing features of these creatures.
4. They Can Live Without Lungs
   While most amphibians rely on lungs to breathe, axolotls can survive without them! They can absorb oxygen through their skin and gills.
5. Axolotls Can Live Over 15 Years
   These resilient amphibians have a surprisingly long lifespan. In the right conditions, axolotls can live for up to 15 years, sometimes even longer!
6. They Have “External Gills”
   The feathery, pinkish-red structures on their head are their external gills. They act as respiratory organs, helping the axolotls to breathe underwater.
7. Their Name Means “Water Monster”
   The word "axolotl" comes from the Nahuatl language, spoken by the Aztecs. It means "water monster" or "water dog," referencing their appearance and aquatic lifestyle.
8. They’re Native to Mexico
   Axolotls are endemic to lakes such as Xochimilco in Mexico City. Sadly, due to pollution and habitat destruction, they are now critically endangered in the wild.
9. They Can Grow to Be 12 Inches Long
   On average, axolotls are around 6-9 inches in length, but they can grow as large as 12 inches, making them fairly sizable amphibians!
10. They Have a Wide Variety of Colors
    While wild axolotls are typically dark with a mottled color pattern, they can also be found in leucistic (pale pink with black eyes), golden albino, and even black variants in the pet trade.
11. They Have No Teeth (Sort of)
    Axolotls don’t have teeth like humans, but they do have a structure similar to teeth called odontodes. They are used for grabbing prey but aren’t effective for chewing.
12. They’re Carnivorous
    Axolotls primarily feed on small fish, worms, and insects. Their diet consists mainly of protein, and they hunt by sucking in their food whole.
13. They Can Regrow Parts of Their Brain
    When injured, axolotls can regenerate parts of their brain. This ability has made them an exciting subject for research into brain repair and regeneration.
14. Axolotls Are Social Creatures
    Though they aren’t particularly affectionate, axolotls do enjoy the company of others and can often be seen swimming together in captivity.
15. They’re Extremely Sensitive to Temperature
    Axolotls thrive in cool water temperatures (60-64°F or 15-18°C). If the water is too warm, it can stress them out and affect their health.
16. They Don’t Like Strong Currents
    Axolotls prefer calm, still water, as they don’t have the ability to handle strong currents. When setting up an aquarium, make sure there’s no strong water flow.
17. They Can Hear
    Axolotls have a good sense of hearing and can detect vibrations in the water, which helps them locate prey and avoid predators.
18. They Can Live Without Eyes
    Though axolotls rely on their vision to some extent, they can still live without eyes. In some cases, axolotls have been successfully bred without eyes, but they rely more on their sense of smell and vibrations.
19. They’re Popular in Science and Medicine
    Axolotls are one of the most studied animals in the world due to their unique regenerative capabilities. Researchers hope their abilities can lead to breakthroughs in human regenerative medicine.
20. Axolotls Are Great Pets
    With their peaceful demeanor and low maintenance needs, axolotls make great pets. However, they do require a specialized tank with clean, cool water and the proper diet.