White Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum). This animal is a type of aquatic salamander. It is neotenous,meaning that it retains the characteristics of the juvenile of the species into maturity. This is due to its inability through lack of a specific hormone to metamorphose into an adult. Although some axolotls do undergo metamorphosis,this is rare and most retain their aquatic larval form into sexual maturity. The axolotl has gill-like structures on either side of its head. It also possesses lungs and is able to breathe through its skin. The axolotl which is native to Mexico,is a critically endangered species. Photographed in captivity | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Martin-Bahr, Chris |
Taille de l’image : | 5120 px × 3413 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |