Axolotl

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 place—Lake 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