In the vibrant tapestry of Mexico’s cultural heritage, the axolotl stands out not just as a unique amphibian but as a symbol of identity and resilience for the native people. Yanet Cruz, the head of the Chinampaxóchitl Museum in Mexico City, emphasizes the significance of this creature, particularly in the context of the chinampas, the ancient floating gardens that continue to thrive in Xochimilco, a neighborhood renowned for its intricate canal systems.
“Despite there being many varieties, the axolotl from the area is a symbol of identity for the native people,” Cruz stated, reflecting on the recent celebrations for “Axolotl Day” held at the museum. The axolotl, scientifically known as Ambystoma mexicanum, has been classified as “critically endangered” by the IUCN Red List since 2019, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts amidst its dwindling population.
Interestingly, the axolotl’s charm has transcended ecological concerns, gaining international fame through popular culture. Its inclusion in the video game Minecraft in 2021 sparked a wave of enthusiasm, coinciding with the Central Bank’s decision to feature the axolotl on the 50-peso bill. “That’s when the ‘axolotlmania’ thrived,” Cruz noted, as the creature began to permeate various aspects of Mexican life, from murals to quirky merchandise like socks and baked goods.
Myth and Reality
The axolotl’s roots delve deep into Mesoamerican mythology. Before the Spanish conquest, while other deities like Tláloc and Coyolxauhqui were prominently represented, the axolotl was less visible. However, it found its place in ancient texts, linked to the myth of the Fifth Sun, where the god Nanahuatzin sacrificed himself to become the sun. His companion, Xólotl, evaded a similar fate but was ultimately hunted down, leading to the emergence of the axolotl from his demise.
Arturo Montero, an archaeologist with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas, elaborates on this myth, suggesting that the axolotl embodies the essence of the Xolotl deity. “Axolotl is the twin of maize, agave, and water,” he remarked, drawing connections between the creature and vital elements of Mexican culture.
Biologically, the axolotl is a marvel. With the ability to regenerate parts of its heart, spinal cord, and even brain, it captivates scientists and enthusiasts alike. Biologist Arturo Vergara, who oversees axolotl conservation efforts, describes the creature’s adaptability, noting its dual breathing capabilities through both gills and skin. “This species is quite peculiar,” he stated, highlighting its resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
At hatcheries like Ambystomania, axolotls are available for purchase, with prices starting at 200 pesos (approximately ). While they can live up to 15 years in captivity, some have been known to reach 20 years, showcasing their longevity compared to their natural lifespan of just a few years due to habitat degradation.
Conservation Efforts
The plight of the axolotl is intricately linked to the health of its habitat. The canals and lakes of Xochimilco, once teeming with life, now struggle under the weight of pollution. Vergara paints a stark picture of the challenges faced by these amphibians, stating, “Just imagine the bottom of a canal in areas like Xochimilco, Tlahuac, Chalco, where there’s an enormous quantity of microbes.”
Despite these challenges, the axolotl’s ability to heal from injuries and survive adverse conditions offers a glimmer of hope. Cruz emphasizes the interconnectedness of axolotl preservation and the chinampas, which serve as both breeding grounds and agricultural spaces for local communities. “Efforts to preserve axolotl go hand in hand with preserving the chinampas,” she explained, underscoring the importance of community involvement in conservation initiatives.
As the chinampas face threats from urbanization and environmental degradation, the future of the axolotl—and indeed, the cultural legacy of Xochimilco—hangs in the balance. Cruz passionately advocates for awareness and action, stating, “If we, as citizens, don’t take care of what’s ours, it will be lost.” The axolotl, with its rich history and ecological significance, serves as a reminder of the delicate interplay between nature and culture, urging us to cherish and protect the treasures of our shared heritage.
