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Common name: Axolotl or Mexican Walking Fish.
Scientific name: Ambystoma mexicanum Water type: Fresh water Description: Staying 100% completely aquatic and living up to an amazing 10-20 years the Axolotls is a hardy fresh water aquatic species (Grows 7-10 inches sometimes up to 12 inches) native to Mexico which possess features typical of salamander larvae. These features include external gills, 4 legs and toes, and a caudal fin extending from behind the head to the vent. Although the Axolotl is 100% aquatic if |
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water becomes unbearable by toxins thy can go through metamorphosis. This is when the Axolotl transforms it's self into a land dwelling creature in order to survive. Metamorphosis is a very stressful process that most Axolotl do not survive. Their heads are wide, and their eyes are lidless making them sensitive to flashes of light and very bright aquarium light. Three pairs of external gill stalks originate behind their heads and are used to move oxygenated water. The external gill are lined with filaments (feather looking things) to increase surface area for gas exchange. External gills are used for respiration, pumping stored oxygen to the lungs. Axolotl's get oxygen by swimming to the surface of the water, quickly sticking either mouths out, and take one big breath. Because of this Axolotl do not require a filter to be able to breath. An Axolotl has amazing regenerative abilities if injured, even to the point of losing a body part the Axolotl will heal/regenerate it within a month or two.