The axolotl ( Ambystoma mexicanum ) is a kind of amphibian that lives in several regions of Mexico , especially in the Xochimilco canal system, characterized by its ability to regenerate certain parts of the body and its peculiar appearance.The species can live in captivity for 30 years, as long as it receives the indicated care.
Despite being one of the animals of great influence in Mexican culture, the species is critically endangered.In the following article of Animals and Pets Online, we will tell you the reasons that explain why the axolotl is in danger of extinction and we will show you possible solutions to improve its conservation status.
Axolotl characteristics
The axolotl is known as "the walking fish".It is a vertebrate that reaches 23 centimeters long , has a broad head and rounded eyes , small and without eyelids.The skin tone varies, most of the time the specimens have dark brown tones with a black back and a lighter belly, in addition to having dark spots that are not very visible; Although one of the most popular is the white-pinkish albino axolotl.One element to highlight is its three pairs of gills , which are born at the base of its head and reach its rear.
The species is found in the central area of Mexico and prefers habitats where there are lakes, since it is submerged in the depths, and can also be found in the flora that is around these lakes.
It is a carnivorous animal , so it feeds on small animals such as fish, worms, insects and almost any living being that it can catch.In addition, it can sometimes present a cannibalistic behavior , that is, it feeds on individuals of its own kind.For more details, do not miss this article: "What does the axolotl eat?".
Despite being considered a typical Mexican animal, diverse Causes threaten this species, so in the next section we present the information about the axolotl in pel extinction igro.
State of conservation of the axolotl
Since 2006, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies the Mexican axolotl as one of the animals in danger of critical extinction .This situation is due to various causes, such as habitat fragmentation caused by the existence of subpopulations of isolated animals, the destruction of the ecosystem, among others.Currently, the situation is so critical that the exact amount of specimens that exist in its natural habitat.However, it is estimated that by 2014 there were a total of 36 live specimens, so drastic actions should be taken if you want to save this species from the serious danger that it runs.
In this sense, there are organizations such as the Pedregal Ecological Reserve , belonging to the University of the Americas (UNAM), which has a axolotl shelter with the objective of multiplying the amount of copy It is in a controlled way.However, the problem must be attacked from the root, which means that it is necessary to stop the introduction of foreign species to the axolotl habitat, in addition to maintaining policies and actions to reduce pollution of rivers where find this species.
Causes of the axolotl in danger of extinction
If you want to find a solution to the danger that this species is running, it is necessary to know in detail the causes for which the axolotl is being extinguished.Yes, then we explain why the axolotl is in danger of extinction :
Degradation and pollution of the habitat
The greatest danger is the pollution product of fishing activities that have deteriorated the quality of the waters where the axolotl lives.Also the destruction of the fauna from which it could feed, a phenomenon caused by the increase in agricultural production.
Illegal trade
Illegal marketing of axolotls is another cause that explains why the axolotl is in danger of extinction and, unfortunately, is an activity that continues to increase day by day.In Mexico, the trade of the species is carried out mainly for its consumption , because it is common to prepare exotic dishes with various parts of your body.In addition, this situation is strengthened due to the economic prices that can be found in the market, which prompts that day by day more people acquire it with ease.
Introduction of exotic species in their habitat
We know that all living beings are part of complex systems and habitats in which they interact to develop and maintain life.However, once these systems are altered or invaded by external agents, they tend to break down.
In the case of the axolotl, another factor that has contributed to damage its existence is the presence of exotic species that have been introduced in life smoothness, which has caused a considerable reduction in the number of copies.
How to help the axolotl in danger of extinction?
We know that there is no single solution to save the axolotl from extinction, but that a set of actions that are aimed at preserving nature should be carried out, only in this way will beneficial results be obtained to achieve a significant change.
Some of these actions that can help the axolot to save itself from the danger of extinction are:
- Promote the government organization to preserve and protect the natural habitat of axolotls .
- Establish measures to prevent illegal trade of the species.
- Raise awareness of the inhabitants to do not damage ecosystems and avoid agricultural activities in vulnerable areas.
- Support independent actions that seek to preserve and increase the axolotl population.
Like all animals in danger of extinction, the axolotl is a wonderful species that is on the verge of disappearance by human activity, so that it is in our hands to redirect the situation to prevent this end from happening.In the following article we share more actions and measures that can be carried out: "How to protect animals in danger of extinction? ".
And if you want to know the most endangered species of Mexico, do not miss this one:" The 12 most endangered animals in Mexico ".
If you want to read more articles similar to Why is the axolotl in danger of extinction? , we recommend that you enter our section of Animals in danger of extinction.
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