The Adaptation of a Water - only Living Amphibian
Autor: Tim • March 2, 2018 • 797 Words (4 Pages) • 419 Views
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live entirely underwater so the use of gills for respiration is a must. However, these animals develop rudimentary lungs, so it is not unusual to see them on land for very short periods of time where they will use their moist skin along with their lungs to breathe. Also, it is common to see them going up to the water’s surface to get some air to either fill up their lungs or grab some nearby insects to eat.
Adult axolotls have an average length of 25 to 30 centimeters and a usual weight of 300 grams. However, some can reach up to 45 centimeters. Their average lifespan is usually 10 to 12 years, and they can vary in color depending on their habitat. The ones that live in the wild are generally dark brownish green, and those that live in laboratories or aquariums are usually albino (see image 2.)
Axolotls breed once a year . Their eggs range from 100 to 300 per breeding, and are surrounded by a protective jelly coat. These eggs are laid individually because they possess higher oxygen requirements, attached to substrates such as plants and rocks. The eggs hatch at 10 to 14 days and their young are immediately independent, which alludes that there is not so much parental care in the species.
Axolotls’ skeleton is not entirely made of bone. Their wrists, ankles, and support for their gills are formed by cartilage. They have feathery gills, which allow them to proficiently extract oxygen from the water. These salamanders are a part of the group Ambystoma thanks to their blunt snouts and large mouths.
Axolotls are poikilothermic amphibians, which means that their body temperature is dependent upon their surroundings. This is a big advantage for them since there is no use of energy in producing body heat. They are also known for their amazing regenerative skills. Young animals of this species can grow back limbs and even some parts of their brain and spine. This grandiose skill may have appeared as a survival strategy since they do not have too many ways to defend themselves from the predators.
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