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Axolotl

2023 MAY 26

Preliminary   > Environment and Ecology   >   Biodiversity   >   Species in news

Why in news?

  • The Axolotl, a species of salamander (lizard-like amphibians) possesses an extraordinary ability to regenerate lost body parts.
  • The elusive o (for “ova deficient” gene) plays a pivotal role in the axolotl’s regenerative process.
  • This inspired researchers to look behind its unique regenerative power.

About Axolotl:

  • These are amphibians that spend their whole lives underwater. They exist in the wild in only one placeLake Xochimilco near Mexico City.
    • Lake Xochimilco is an ancient endorheic lake.
    • It is a network of artificial channels, small lakes, and temporary wetlands that help supply water to nearby Mexico City’s 18 million residents.
    • It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • IUCN Status:
    • Critically endangered.
  • Food:
    • They feast on mollusks, worms, insect larvae, crustaceans, and some fish.
  • Threat:
    • Even though they are amphibians, axolotls remain aquatic throughout their lives but they are now almost extinct in the wild. Their populations have declined considerably due to:
      • a) Habitat loss due to Mexico City’s continued urbanization
      • b) Water pollution
      • c) Invasive fish species such as carp and tilapia, which compete with axolotls for food and prey upon them.

Unique capability:

  • Axolotls, like humans, contain two copies of every gene – one inherited from the father and the other from the mother.
  • Axolotls have the ability to regenerate lost body parts and have a rare trait of neoteny, which means they retain larval features throughout life. These interested cancer researchers for their unique resistance to developing cancerous tissues.

PRACTICE QUESTION:

Axolotl was discussed in news due to:

(a) Their ability to regenerate lost body parts.

(b) They tend to reduce the biodiversity in the area in which it grows.

(c) They are useful in fermentation

(d) They are a cheap source of bio-fuel

Answer