Mexico City—Efforts to revive the critically endangered axolotl, a unique species of salamander native to the waters of Mexico, are gaining momentum following promising findings from recent research. Scientists at the Autonomous University of Baja California reported that axolotls bred in captivity can successfully survive and adapt to wild environments, raising hopes for their long-term conservation.

In a study released this week, researchers tracked 18 axolotls, split evenly between males and females, after releasing them into two wetland areas in southern Mexico City from 2017 to 2018. The lead researcher, Alejandra Ramos, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that the axolotls thrived in their new habitats.

“What we learned is that if we can reintroduce these axolotls to restored wetlands with suitable water conditions, they can survive and even flourish,” Ramos noted. The study was published in a scientific journal and highlights the resilience of this remarkable species.

Concerns existed regarding how axolotls raised in captivity would fare after release, as these animals often lose innate survival skills. “We were apprehensive about their ability to recognize predators and hunt for food,” Ramos added. However, upon recapture, these salamanders displayed substantial weight gain, indicating successful adaptation. “They were actively hunting, feeding, and avoiding predators,” she stated, marking a significant achievement in conservation efforts.

Axolotls, known for their striking appearance and regenerative abilities, are not only beloved by fans around the world but also participants in critical research for medical science. These amphibians possess the incredible capability to regenerate limbs, organs, and even parts of their hearts and brains, which holds promise for advancements in human medicine.

Despite their cultural significance and popularity, axolotls are teetering on the brink of extinction due to habitat destruction and pollution, with estimates suggesting as few as 50 to 1,000 adults left in the wild. The study involved releasing the axolotls into both artificial and restored wetland areas, showcasing a potential pathway for bolstering their dwindling numbers.

The ability to thrive in both natural and man-made environments offers a silver lining for conservation efforts. Researchers believe that if axolotls can adapt to human-altered habitats, it may mitigate some adverse effects of climate change and environmental degradation.

For Ramos, saving the axolotl transcends scientific inquiry; it is an endeavor deeply rooted in cultural identity. “For Mexicans, they are part of our culture and history,” she said, emphasizing the importance of preserving this iconic species for future generations. As researchers continue to find pathways for reintroducing the axolotl into the wild, their survival may soon be more than a dream—potentially marking a significant step forward in conservation.