MEXICO CITY — The axolotl, a creature steeped in lore, wasn’t always just an amphibian. According to legend, it was once a clever god before becoming Mexico’s cherished salamander, with ongoing efforts aimed at preventing its extinction gaining momentum. Yanet Cruz, who heads the Chinampaxóchitl Museum in the heart of Mexico City, describes it as “an interesting little animal.”
The museum showcases exhibits centered on the axolotl and chinampas, which are ancient agricultural systems reminiscent of floating gardens that remain operational in Xochimilco, a neighborhood known for its picturesque canals. “Despite the existence of various species, the axolotl from this area stands as a symbol of identity for the indigenous population,” Cruz noted, sharing insights during festivities for “Axolotl Day” celebrated in early February.
Although there are no definitive statistics available on the current axolotl population, the species known as Ambystoma mexicanum—which is native to central Mexico—has been classified as “critically endangered” by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species since 2019. Biologists, historians, and officials have taken significant steps to protect both the species and its habitat from extinction, but a surprising trend of preservation has also surfaced. The axolotl gained worldwide fame when it was integrated into the popular game Minecraft in 2021, igniting excitement among Mexicans. The Central Bank’s decision that same year to feature the axolotl on a 50-peso bill catalyzed a phenomenon dubbed “axolotlmania,” according to Cruz.
Throughout Mexico, this charming, dragon-like amphibian has made appearances in vibrant murals, artisanal crafts, and even novelty socks. Numerous bakeries have created buzz with delicious axolotl-themed treats. Additionally, a local brewery named “Ajolote,” which translates to axolotl, drew attention by honoring Mexican traditions through its name.
Long before the Spanish conquest of Mexico-Tenochtitlan in the 16th century, representations of the axolotl might not have been as prominent as deities like Tláloc, the rain god, and Coyolxauhqui, the goddess of the moon. However, references to it can be found in ancient Mesoamerican texts. In one such narrative, the Nahua myth of the Fifth Sun tells of the pre-Hispanic god Nanahuatzin. After sacrificing himself in flames to become the sun, he urged his fellow gods to follow suit, bringing movement and life to the world. All complied except for Xólotl, the deity associated with the evening star, who escaped but was eventually hunted down and killed. According to Arturo Montero, an archaeologist with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas, it was following this death that the axolotl came into existence.
Montero further interprets the myth as a narrative where the essence of a god is transformed into a mundane creature, hence tying a part of the divine spirit into the axolotl itself. The belief is that when this creature dies, its essence travels to the underworld, only to be reborn once again, continuing the cycle of life. “The axolotl is a twin to maize, agave, and water,” Montero explained.
This heightened excitement for axolotls and their historical sacred standing is likely connected to their unique biological characteristics, according to Montero. Viewing the axolotl through the glass of aquariums in academic institutions or hatcheries can be a challenge since they often remain motionless for hours, camouflaged with dark skin to resemble stones. An albino variety, however, can also be bred. They breath not only through lungs but also via their gills and skin, allowing them to adapt well to aquatic settings, and they possess the remarkable ability to regenerate certain aspects of their heart, spinal cord, and even parts of their brain.
“This species is truly fascinating,” observed biologist Arturo Vergara, who oversees axolotl preservation initiatives across various institutions and manages specimens meant for sale at a hatchery in Mexico City. Prices for axolotls at Ambystomania, where Vergara works, begin at around 200 pesos (approximately $10 US) depending on factors like species, color, and size. Specimens become available for sale once they reach four inches in length, making them relatively easy pets to care for. “While they typically have a life span of about 15 years in captivity, we’ve had individuals that lived as long as 20 years,” Vergara noted, emphasizing their longevity, even though they might only survive three to four years in the wild.
The axolotls displayed at the museum are one of 17 known varieties endemic to the polluted lakes and canals of the area. In a healthy habitat, it would be challenging for axolotls to find adequate sustenance or reproduce effectively. “If you could visualize the bottom of a canal in regions like Xochimilco or Chalco, you would see an overwhelming number of microbes,” Vergara pointed out.
Under optimal conditions, axolotls can recover from bites caused by snakes or herons and endure dry seasons by burying themselves in mud. However, proper aquatic environments are crucial for survival. Cruz emphasized that conservation efforts for the axolotl are intricately linked to the preservation of chinampas. “These are critical not just for axolotls to lay their eggs but were also historically where pre-Hispanic communities cultivated crops such as maize, chili, beans, and zucchini,” she stated, highlighting how some residents still practice agriculture amidst environmental challenges.
“Many chinampas are parched and no longer yield produce,” Cruz lamented. “In some places, where chinampas once thrived, you can now find soccer fields.” For both Cruz and Vergara, the preservation of the axolotl transcends the species itself; it’s about safeguarding the very environment from which the amphibian originated. “This intricate chinampa system is all that remains of the lake city of Mexico-Tenochtitlan, so I consistently remind visitors that Xochimilco serves as a living archaeological zone,” Cruz concluded. “If we, as community members, fail to protect our heritage, it will be lost.”
