The Wild Axolotl | Tumble Episode

tumblepodcast
Jan 17
2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Episode art for "The Wild Axolotl." Pink axolotl cartoon waves.

Why are there so many axolotls living in fish tanks (and in Minecraft), but so few in the wild? To find out, Tumble talked to axolotl veterinarian Horacio Mena. Horacio lives near the real-life birthplace of the cute Minecraft character: the lakes and canals of Xochimilco, near Mexico City. It’s the only place you can find axolotls in the wild… but there are fewer and fewer of them every year. Horacio talks about what scientists are doing to save them, and how you can help!

🎧 Listen to the Episode

Dr. Horacio Mena pictured standing near a canal in front of two metal habitats built for axolotls. — Dr Horacio Mena Gonzalez, researcher at the Ecological Restoration Laboratory at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

🔎About The Featured Expert

Dr. Horacio Mena Gonzalez is a veterinarian and zoologist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. He focuses on the conservation and rehabilitation of endangered animals, such as the axolotl and sea turtles. He also helps coordinate the introduction of the axolotl to refuges in the chinampa area of Xochimilco within the Chinampa-Refugio project. And, he also finds time to work as a specialized vet for working dogs and service animals.

The Incredible Regenerative Skills of Axolotls:

If you first encountered Axolotls in Minecraft, you may know them for their regenerative abilities. But how exactly does it work, and why can't all animals regrow missing limbs? Check out this video from TED-Ed to find out answers to these questions, and more.

Learn more about the canals and floating markets of Xochimilco:

Did Horacio's description of the floating markets on the canals of Xochimilco inspire you to want to take a trip to Mexico? Check out the video below from Spanish and Go, of bloggers Jim and May exploring the markets and canals!