Axolotls, or as they're alternatively known Mexican Salamanders, are a type of amphibious salamander that reaches sexual maturity without undergoing metamorphosis, keeping it in a near juvenile state for its entire life. Axolotls are also known for their healing abilities, being able to regenerate entire limbs or if need be even organs. It's like they're a real-life member of the X-Men and of course, there's the beaming smile they seem to have too!
They can also readily accept transplants from other individuals, including eyes and parts of the brain, then restoring these foreign organs to full functionality. In metamorphosed individuals, however, the ability to regenerate is greatly diminished. It's because of this regeneration ability that the axolotl is used as a model for the development of limbs in vertebrates, giving them great scientific importance.
Sadly, the Axolotl is almost completely absent from it's natural environment now, although plenty now live in captivity. Unfortunately after centuries of inbreeding, captive populations are vulnerable to disease. With the loss of genetic diversity in wild axolotls as a result of their dwindling numbers, this means that scientists lose out on learning all they can about the animal’s biology. Luckily there are conservation efforts under way, but much more could be done and the Mexican government really needs to step up and protect one of their national icons.
Did you know the Axolotl could regenerate limbs the same as David Tennant's Doctor? Let me know what you think about this amazing creature down in the comment section, and as always make sure to follow me for the latest Cryptocurrency, Technology, Internet and Pop Culture updates. If you're a fan of strange YouTube videos, you might want to follow me on Twitter. Until next time, Peace!
Sources:
Image By th1098 (https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30918973)
Biology's Beloved Amphibian--the Axolotl--Is Racing toward Extinction (https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/biologys-beloved-amphibian-the-axolotl-is-racing-toward-extinction1/)
Axolotls are amazing animals, I didn't know so many facts about them, thanks for an interesting article about this fascinating creatures! I decided to follow you 😊
Thanks to you @johngreenfield through steemit, if not for you I wouldn't know this much about such class of creatures.
Thanks for sharing.
it looks a lot like slovenian proteus anguinus
Nice and informative post! Thanks for sharing!😊
wow! I did not know! you benefited with the photo because it is not really beautiful ...
They're fascinating creatures, and I think they're pretty damn cute. Look at the smiley face,and the way their gills look like hair!
;-)
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