Axolotl
(Ambystoma mexicanum)

Found in the lakes of Mexico's Central Valley, these amphibians never seem to grow up! While other amphibians metamorphose and live on land, Axolotls don't, staying in water all their life! However, under certain stresses, they can turn into a salamander. This usually shortens their lifespan unless, in extremely rare cases, they transform on their own.

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Axolotls are known for their advanced regenerative abilities. They are capable of restoring limbs, tail, and even vital organs like its eyes, heart, and part of its brain! This ability declines as they age. They can also regenerate new limbs but sometimes this results in a mix up... A new limb grows but the old one also heals resulting in extra limbs!

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Did you know that the Axolotl's iconic pink appearance is the result of a genetic mutation and selective breeding? They are actually much darker in the wild!