Discover the Axolotarium: Preserving a Unique Species

A group of students from the University of Arkansas in Queretaro established a dedicated center for the conservation, research, and breeding of the Axolotl, also known as the Ambystoma Mexicanum. The Axolotarium was founded over two years ago in response to the threats facing this unique species, particularly those living in their natural habitat of Xochimilco Lake in Mexico City.

The founder and president of the Axolotarium, Jesús Alejandro Pérez Andrade, recognized the challenges facing the Axolotl, including the inability to survive in its natural ecosystem and the widespread illegal trafficking of this endangered animal. What began as a school project has now evolved into a recognized sanctuary for environmental conservation.

The project started with just two Axolotls, which formed the basis of the initial research and responsible breeding practices. This breeding program resulted in three more Axolotls, marking the beginning of a collection that now houses over 500 of these fascinating creatures.

Pérez Andrade's goal is for the Axolotarium to become the world's leading laboratory focused on the Axolotl. "Mexico is incredibly diverse; we are the only ones with Axolotls. We also have a wealth of human talent, with many young people interested in researching and learning about this relatively unknown species," he said.

This sanctuary now has a solid foundation for a successful breeding program, which will help increase knowledge about the Axolotl. The center has already attracted the attention of renowned researchers, such as Dr. Alfredo Cruz from the Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (Cinvestav). Dr. Cruz has spent over a decade studying the biological factors of the Axolotl, with the aim of applying this knowledge to various medical purposes.

Dr. Cruz highlighted the importance of the Axolotarium's achievement in enabling natural reproduction without the use of hormones. He also emphasized the severe risk facing the Axolotl and its habitat, noting that the disappearance of the Axolotl would signal the loss of many other species.

The Axolotarium has now become self-sustainable, supported by government and business sector donors, as well as through the sale of items created by the students. The sanctuary is staffed by over 60 students from various fields, including biotechnology, economics, engineering, and marketing, forming a multidisciplinary team dedicated to this project.