The axolotl, often referred to as a “walking fish” due to its aquatic nature, is a fascinating type of salamander. This amphibian possesses a unique blend of salamander-like characteristics and specialized adaptations for its fully aquatic life.
Key Physical Characteristics
The axolotl has a slender, elongated body that is somewhat flattened, allowing it to navigate its aquatic environment efficiently. Its most recognized feature is the presence of three pairs of feathery, external gills that extend from behind its broad head. These gills are often brightly colored, ranging from deep reds to purples, and are used for respiration, absorbing oxygen directly from the water.
The axolotl’s head is notably broad and flattened. It possesses small, lidless eyes positioned on the sides of its head, providing a wide field of vision underwater. Below these eyes is a wide, upturned mouth that often gives the impression of a perpetual “smile.”
Its limbs are relatively underdeveloped and stubby, with four unwebbed digits on each front limb and five on each hind limb. These limbs are primarily used for crawling along the substrate. A prominent, powerful, paddle-like tail extends from the rear of its body, which is its primary means of propulsion through water. The skin of an axolotl is smooth, soft, and permeable.
Color Morphs and Size Variations
Axolotls exhibit a remarkable range of color variations, known as morphs. The “wild type” morph typically displays a dark, mottled pattern of greens, browns, and black, often with iridescent gold speckles. In contrast, the “leucistic” morph is characterized by a pale pink or white body with distinct dark eyes.
Another common morph is the “albino,” which can be either a golden or white. Golden albinos have a yellowish or pinkish body and red or pink eyes. White albinos are very pale with pink or red eyes. The “melanoid” morph appears uniformly dark grey or black, without the shiny spots or lighter belly often seen in wild types.
An adult axolotl typically measures between 6 to 18 inches (15 to 45 centimeters) from the tip of its head to the end of its tail. While most captive-bred individuals fall within the 8 to 12-inch range, some can grow larger under optimal conditions.