02. April 2025
Last Hope For Mexicos Iconic Axolotls Fades As Species Teeters On Brink Of Extinction
The Axolotl’s Precarious Situation Serves as a Stark Reminder of Human Activities’ Impact on Nature
The axolotl, once revered by the Aztecs as a divine entity and now critically endangered, has become an unlikely symbol of conservation efforts in Mexico. The species’ ability to regrow limbs and resist aging makes it an object of fascination for scientists and enthusiasts alike. However, its declining population poses a significant threat not only to its survival but also to the delicate ecosystem of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico City.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, axolotls are at “extremely high risk of extinction in the wild,” with only 36 individuals remaining in their natural habitat in 2014. The decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including habitat destruction, pollution, and overcollection for the pet trade.
In Xochimilco, which was once home to approximately 6,000 axolotls per square kilometer, the population plummeted to just 1,000 by 2004 and then to a mere 100 by 2008. The drastic decline is a testament to the severe impact of human activities on the axolotl population.
Despite these alarming figures, there is still hope for the survival of this ancient species. Scientists from the Ecological Restoration Laboratory at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have embarked on a mission to conserve and study the remaining axolotls in Xochimilco. The team, led by project leader Luis Zambrano, aims to reverse the decline and ensure the long-term survival of this unique species.
The census, which is currently underway, involves a combination of traditional fishing techniques and innovative methods such as environmental DNA analysis. This approach allows researchers to detect axolotls in their natural habitat without disturbing them. The team uses specialized equipment to collect water samples from Xochimilco’s canals and lakes, where they search for the DNA of the axolotl.
The surveying process takes place at dawn, when the sun has not yet risen over the horizon, providing an opportunity to observe the creatures without disrupting their natural behavior. As researchers accompanied by WIRED on a wooden raft through the tranquil waters of Xochimilco, they caught glimpses of herons and pelicans rising from the surface of the lake, creating a breathtaking sight.
The axolotl’s habitat in Xochimilco is an intricate network of canals and lakes that date back to the pre-Hispanic era. The chinampas, artificial agricultural islands built by the Aztecs, still thrive today, providing a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse array of plant and animal species.
The axolotl itself is a remarkable creature, with its ability to regrow limbs and resist aging making it an object of fascination for scientists and enthusiasts alike. The four-legged, long-tailed creatures are nocturnal and carnivorous, feeding on a diet of insects and small fish. They come in a range of colors, including wild blackish-brown, leucistic white with dark eyes, white albino, and golden albino.
Paola Cervantes, a graduate in earth sciences and member of the UNAM team, expressed optimism about the census’s potential to provide comprehensive understanding of the current status of the axolotl population. The final results are expected to be published in the first half of 2025, with a follow-up count planned for 2026.
The census is not just about detecting axolotls; it’s also about raising awareness about the importance of conservation and promoting sustainable practices. By engaging local villagers, like Basilio RodrÃguez, in the surveying process, the team aims to build a sense of community and responsibility towards the species.
In conclusion, the story of the last wild axolotls serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for conservation efforts. As scientists work tirelessly to preserve this unique species, it is essential that we acknowledge the devastating impact of human activities on the natural world and take immediate action to mitigate these effects.
The fate of the axolotl hangs in the balance, but with continued research, education, and community engagement, there is still hope for the survival of this remarkable creature. By working together to conserve the last wild axolotls, we can ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at their unique characteristics and fascinating abilities.