A groundbreaking study reveals that captive-bred axolotls can survive and thrive in the wild, offering new hope for conservation efforts.
The axolotl, an aquatic salamander with feathery frills and a soft smile, is on the brink of extinction in the wild. However, a recent discovery presents a promising opportunity for conservation.
The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a unique salamander native to Mexico.
It has the ability to regrow its limbs and is found in Lake Xochimilco, Mexico City's canals, and other freshwater habitats.
Axolotls are neotenic, meaning they keep their gills and remain aquatic throughout their lives.
They have become a popular exotic pet due to their distinctive appearance and interesting behavior.
In captivity, axolotls are common pets and research subjects. But their wild counterparts, endemic to Lake Xochimilco in Mexico, are critically endangered due to habitat degradation, with only 50 to 1,000 individuals remaining. Introducing captive-bred axolotls to restored and artificial wetlands may be a game-changer for conserving these charismatic creatures.
The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a unique and endangered species native to Mexico. Habitat destruction, pollution, and overcollection for the pet trade have contributed to its decline. Conservation efforts focus on protecting its remaining habitats in Lake Xochimilco and other lakes in Mexico City. Organizations are working to reintroduce axolotls into the wild, monitor water quality, and educate communities about the importance of conservation. The Mexican government has also established protected areas and implemented regulations to control the pet trade.
A New Approach to Conservation
Researchers identified two suitable habitats for their experiment: a restored canal in the axolotl’s native Lake Xochimilco, and an artificial wetland. The team implanted transmitters in 18 captive-bred axolotls and released 10 into the chinampa and eight into the artificial wetland. For 40 days, volunteers tracked the axolotls’ movements using radio receivers, monitoring their activity levels as often as a couple of times a day.
The results were encouraging: all the axolotls survived the experiment, with three recaptured individuals gaining weight, indicating that the habitats were suitable and the axolotls could hunt successfully in the wild. The monitoring data revealed that the amphibians traveled farther early on, probably exploring the area before settling into hunting and hiding spots.
Understanding Axolotl Preferences
The study’s findings also shed light on axolotl preferences. The artificial wetland was slightly cooler than the restored chinampa, with temperatures peaking within a narrow range of 16°C. This understanding can help researchers pick ideal reintroduction habitats for conserving these animals.
While reintroduction is considered a plan B, ecologist Luis Zambrano notes that it may be necessary if other conservation efforts fail. The team’s first goal is to improve habitat conditions for axolotls already living in the wild. Currently, they are working on multiplying the number of restored chinampas in the lake.
A New Era for Axolotl Conservation
The discovery of captive-bred axolotls’ ability to survive and thrive in the wild offers new hope for conservation efforts. With the know-how gained from this study, researchers can better prepare for the potential reintroduction of these charismatic creatures into their native habitats. As ecologist Alejandra Ramos puts it, ‘That captive-bred axolotls can actually survive in the wild… it’s really important for conservation.‘
Reintroduction refers to the process of reintroducing a species, population, or individual into its natural habitat after it has become extinct or been absent for an extended period.
This can be done through conservation efforts, wildlife management programs, or controlled releases.
Reintroduction aims to reestablish a balanced ecosystem and promote biodiversity.
It involves careful planning, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure the success of the reintroduced species.
- sciencenews.org | The axolotl is endangered in the wild. A discovery offers hope
