Axolotl Scientific Name​, Genus, Habitat, Diet, and Types

What is the scientific name for axolotl? The axolotl scientific name is Ambystoma mexicanum.

The axolotl is a unique aquatic salamander, capable of regenerating limbs, retaining juvenile characteristics for its entire life, and thus surviving only in water. This fascinating creature has gained fame as both a research subject and an exotic pet. In this guide, we will cover everything about the axolotl, including the axolotl biological name, pronunciation, Latin word, meaning, genus, classification, lifestyle, habitat, diet, lifespan, species, and more.

What is the Axolotl Scientific Name?

• Common English Name: Axolotl
• Scientific Name of Axolotl: Ambystoma mexicanum
• Full Latin Name: Ambystoma mexicanum

The scientific name of the axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum, indicates its genus Ambystoma (the first part) and the species mexicanum (the second part). This particular species, this unique amphibian, is endemic to the lakes near Mexico City, particularly Lake Xochimilco.

Meaning of the Axolotl Scientific Name

• Ambystoma: Greek meaning “blunt mouth”
• mexicanum: Latinized for originating in Mexico

Thus, Ambystoma mexicanum essentially translates to “blunt-mouthed salamander from Mexico.”

How to Pronounce Ambystoma mexicanum

• Ambystoma: /ˌæm.bɪˈstoʊ.mə/
• mexicanum: /ˌmɛk.sɪˈkɑː.nəm/
• Together: /ˌæm.bɪˈstoʊ.mə ˌmɛk.sɪˈkɑː.nəm/

Pronunciation of English:

• Ambystoma: am-bis-TOH-muh
• mexicanum: mek-si-KAY-num
• Together: am-bis-TOH-muh | mek-si-KAY-num

This pronunciation can be difficult for beginners, but breaking it down into syllables makes it easier to remember and pronounce correctly.

Biological Classification of Axolotl

Here’s the biological classification or zoological hierarchy of the axolotl:

This places axolotls in the family of mole salamanders, known for burrowing and neotenic traits.

Where Do Axolotls Live in the Wild?

The axolotl is native to Mexico. In the wild, its habitat is limited to:

• Lake Xochimilco, near Mexico City
• Former habitat: Lake Chalco (now drained)

Axolotls live in freshwater lakes, canals, and wetlands, with:

• Cold water temperatures (14-18 °C)
• Aquatic vegetation
• Soft mud for burrowing

Due to pollution and destruction of their habitat, they are critically endangered animals in the wild.

What Do Axolotls Eat?

Axolotls are carnivorous amphibians with a suction-feeding method.

Diet in the wild:

• Insect larvae
• small crustaceans
• worm
• Amateur swimmers

Diet in Captivity:

• Bloodworms
• earthworms
• brine shrimp
• axolotl pellets
• salmon pellets
• frozen or live feeder fish (seldom)

Axolotls eat based on their size and age. They often feed at night and are solitary hunters.

Axolotl Lifespan, Size, and Growth

With good care, cooler water, and a clean tank, the axolotls can survive for longer. In the wild, axolotls have a shorter lifespan due to environmental stress.

Regeneration and sound of the Axolotl

Do Axolotls Make Sounds?

Axolotls are generally silent amphibians. They lack the croaks and calls of a true frog or toad. Subtle sounds some make include:

• Splashing and gulping while eating
• Some click noises when being fed
• Splashes while moving in the water

Nevertheless, they do not possess vocal cords- these are just incidental sounds that have no meaning as far as communication is concerned.

Regeneration Ability of Axolotls

One of the most astonishing biological facts about axolotls is that they regrow:

• Limbs
• Tail
• Parts of the heart
• Spinal cord
• Eyes
• Skin
• Even parts of the brain

That’s why scientists study axolotl regeneration for potential breakthroughs in human medicine.

Axolotl Behavior and Lifestyle

• Burrowing: They like to hide under rocks or plants.
• Aquatic: They spend 100% of their life underwater.
• Solitary: Prefer to be alone.
• Nocturnal: Most active at night
• Reproduction: Male deposits spermatophore; female lays 100-1000 eggs.

Axolotls require low light, low stress, and stable water conditions.

Types and Colors of Axolotls (Color Morphs)

These axolotl color morphs are only found in captivity through selective breeding.

Summary Table: Axolotl Key Facts

Conclusion

Ambystoma mexicanum is the scientific name for axolotl, a creature native to Mexico, with astonishing regeneration and water-dwelling adaptations. Biology students learn about axolotl taxonomy, its Latin name, behavior, and characteristics of pet owners, inquiring about the hues of the rare amphibian, which are figures of wonder to naturalists.