Mystical amphibian venerated by Aztecs nears extinction

Mystical amphibian venerated by Aztecs nears extinction

Dark, slimy and mysterious, the Mexican salamander moves with a sluggishness reminiscent of prehistoric animals. But when it pulls in its legs, it can swim fast like a fish. If it loses a limb, it can grow it back. The axolotl (pronounced ASH-oh-LOH-tuhl), as it was called by the Aztecs, is a fantastic amphibian that embodies the mysteries of Mexico’s ancient world. Revered for centuries, this wonder is under threat. The Mexican salamander is found only in its original habitat, Xochimilco.

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via @ajam