AnAge entry for Ambystoma mexicanum

Classification (HAGRID: 00112)

Taxonomy: Kingdom: Animalia
    Phylum: Chordata
        Class: Amphibia (Taxon entry)
            Order: Caudata
                Family: Ambystomatidae
                    Genus: Ambystoma
Species: Ambystoma mexicanum
Common name: Axolotl

Maximum longevity: 17 years (captivity)
Source: ref. 451
Sample size: Large
Data quality: Acceptable
Observations: The axolotl is a classic case of neoteny in that animals become sexually mature without undergoing the final metamorphosis to the land-borne adult. Although very rare in the wild, it is possible to induce metamorphosis in the lab using thyroxine injections but animals die shortly afterwards [0449]. Like other similar species, the axolotl is capable of limb regeneration, the study of which could be of benefit to regenerative medicine; they are also extremely resistant to cancer [0843]. Anecdotal evidence, which seems possible, suggests these animals may live up to 25 years.

: No information is available on life history. Please contact us if you wish to suggest or contribute data.

No information on metabolism is available.

[0843] Roy and Gatien (2008), Regeneration in axolotls: a model to aim for! (PubMed)
[0796] Roy and Levesque (2006), Limb regeneration in axolotl: is it superhealing? (PubMed)
[0449] Brunst (1955), The axolotl (siredon mexicanum). I. As material for scientific research (PubMed)
[0451] Frank & Kate's Web Page
[0749] AmphibiaWeb