Template:Friend of the Week

The Axolotl, also known as the Mexican Salamander or the Mexican Walking Fish, is a species of Salamander living in the caves below Mexico. No matter what the name implies, it is not, in fact, a fish. The Axolotl frequently reaches maturity without undergoing metamorphosis. In dire circumstances, the Axolotl lacks the hormones that normally cause amphibians to undergo metamorphosis, and if given those hormones it will mature into its adult state. Staying in the larval state has the benefits of being able to remain aquatic, and requiring less food. The Axolotl is renowned for its incredible healing abilities. It can regenerate most parts of its body, and even has been observed to regenerate parts of its brain. The Axolotl accepts transplants from others incredibly readily, including, again, parts of the brain. The Axolotl is also critically endangered. Pollution coming from the surrounding cities flowing into the waterways has been killing them off. The same goes with their frequent capture for the pet trade. A study done in 2013 found no wild specimens, but the continued sale of wild Axolotls by local fishermen indicates that there must be some left. There’s really nowhere to send your money if you want to help out these cute little amphibians. There’s a pretty unique situation going here, where there is a very large captive population, but due to risks of fungal infections and genetic issues, there are no current attempts at reintroduction.