The
wonderfully unique axolotl, found only in the canals of Lake Xochimilco
in Mexico City. Unlike most amphibians, axolotls never lose their gills
or leave the water. They retain their juvenile features into adulthood,
a trait called neoteny.
That’s not just what makes them cute, it is also why they are regeneration champs, able to regrow limbs, organs, and even parts of their brains.
That’s handy, because when food is scarce and the older siblings are calling the shots, younger ones can end up as victims of intraspecific cannibalism… basically, sibling nibbling.
Turns out, being the younger brother or sister kind of sucks across all species. Human siblings take your stuff. Axolotl siblings take your legs.
That’s not just what makes them cute, it is also why they are regeneration champs, able to regrow limbs, organs, and even parts of their brains.
That’s handy, because when food is scarce and the older siblings are calling the shots, younger ones can end up as victims of intraspecific cannibalism… basically, sibling nibbling.
Turns out, being the younger brother or sister kind of sucks across all species. Human siblings take your stuff. Axolotl siblings take your legs.
