The axolotl or axolotl is an amphibian, no, it is not a tadpole, but a salamander, but with unique characteristics: “it does not undergo metamorphosis; it reaches sexual maturity and can reproduce without losing the physical and morphological characteristics of its larval state (neoteny). It is the amphibian of ‘eternal youth’, it remains in an aquatic environment all its life and is capable of regenerating all parts of its body, including the nervous system, a situation that has made it very attractive to scientists around the world” (Mena-González & Servín-Zamora, 2014).

The Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) only inhabits Mexico City. There are 17 species of Ambystoma in the country, but unfortunately many are in danger of extinction.

The axolotl takes its name from the god Xolotl, twin brother of Quetzalcoatl. Xolotl was considered a master of transformation and the divinity of monstrosities; he was the one who guided the souls of the dead.

The axolotl is a salamander. It differs from frogs in that it has a tail. It develops its legs quickly and its gills, which look like branches, are always visible, almost like an ornament that characterizes it.

What is AdoptAxolotl?

The Ecological Restoration Laboratory (LRE) of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) indicates that Xochimilco ―in Mexico City― and the axolotl have very little time left. In less than 20 years, the population of axolotls in Xochimilco has been reduced from 6,000 per square kilometer to only 36; if the situation continues, this species will disappear in 30 years. Therefore, it is necessary to accelerate the restoration of this ecosystem.

The International Campaign “AdoptAxolotl” of the Ecological Restoration Laboratory of the Institute of Biology of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (IBUNAM), whose main objectives are to make society aware of the current situation in Xochimilco through environmental education, and to involve it in the conservation of both the axolotl and its habitat through the virtual and symbolic adoption of this species in the chinampas-refuge.

The funds raised allow us to continue with the research and ecological restoration work of the LRE. The donations obtained are destined to the following:

1. Improve the quality of life of the axolotls by providing them with access to medicines, live food and safe places to develop their life cycle.

2. Supporting the chinamperas who actively participate in the ecological restoration of the lake through the care and maintenance of the chinampas-refuge.

The experimental colony

For more than ten years, the LRE has had a specific and isolated area in Xochimilco, where the care and management of axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) is carried out.

Its objective is to become a specialized center for the management and conservation of this species, based on international protocols for the maintenance of amphibians in captivity and semi-captivity.

Currently, the axolotl colony has 120 individuals, which complete their life cycle in a dignified manner.

The food, health and hydrological variables of the spaces in which they are found are monitored daily to detect any threat that could endanger their well-being.

Maintaining a viable population of axolotls allows us to have individuals ready for reintroduction into the chinampas-refuge, once these have the necessary conditions for the axolotls to survive.

How can you adopt?

The adoption of an axolotl or a chinampa-refugio is done virtually.

You can do it through PayPal (via ww.restauracionecologica.org/adopciones) or go directly to the website of the Institute of Biology of the UNAM:

1. Go to www.restauracionecologica.org/adopcione
2. Select PayPal as payment method you will be directed to the adoption portal of the Institute of Biology of the UNAM.
3. Choose the adoption kit of your choice and click on the “donate” button.
4. Make your payment (remember that you can now automate your monthly donation).
5. Once your payment is completed, you will be redirected to the home page and a form will be enabled which you must fill out with the information we need to assemble your kit.
6. After five to seven business days you will receive your personalized kit via email. If you want your kit physically, you will have to notify us by email to schedule your delivery.

Contacts for visits and volunteering

Biól. Diana L. Vázquez Mendoza
M.C. Vania A. Mendoza Solis
lre@st.ib.unam.mx