Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum 

Habitat & Distribution :  Xochimilco Lake Complex, Mexico (Endemic)

Diet : Fish, crustaceans, molluscs, worms 

Size : 30 cm

Lifespan : 10-15 years

Description

known for retaining larval features, such as feathery external gills and a finned tail, throughout its life. Typically 30 cm long, they have broad heads, wide mouths, four thin limbs, and wide-set eyes. 

Behavior

They spend days hiding in mud or vegetation, becoming active at night to hunt by suction-feeding on worms, insects, and small fish. 

Reproduction

 They reproduce via a "courtship dance" where the male deposits sperm packets for the female to collect with her cloaca. Females lay 200–1,500 eggs on plants or rocks, which hatch in 2–3 weeks. 

Communication & Perception

Axolotls communicate primarily through chemical cues, pheromones, and physical movement, especially during breeding. 

Predator

 Large fish, Herons, Storks