Axolotls: The Endangered Species Captivating Kids and Raising Awareness

An axolotl in Mexico and Plush Axolotl Squishy Snack Diary, the best-selling Scholastic axolotl product

Axolotls, an endangered species, have been gaining popularity throughout the world. However, these creatures which are native to Mexico are disappearing in the wild. After speaking to Rosa Maria Cruz Hernandez, an axolotl caretaker who works at VillAjolote, an axolotl preservation site, in Villa del Carbón, Mexico, I was able to learn more about these fascinating animals.

Cruz Hernandez and her team, take care of these amphibians to ensure their population continues to grow. They make sure tank temperatures are ideal, there is sufficient space, and that there is nutrient-dense water. Cruz Hernandez explained how they also must clean the tanks in ways to not disturb them.

Axolotl in tank at Rosa Maria Cruz Hernandez’s axolotl aquarium.

Once born, the larvae are kept in tanks with cold water and fed “a variety of foods that these animals could naturally feed on,” said Cruz Hernandez. When the axolotls are young, they feed on crickets, water fleas, and soon move on to aquatic worms and cockroaches.

What Causes Extinction?

Contamination and construction surrounding their natural habitat can endanger axolotls. In Xochimilco, Mexico, where most axolotls live, the water and air quality are not ideal for their care. Additionally, they face challenges with limited food and space in their habitat.

Community Awareness

Cruz Hernandez also explained her role in trying to raise awareness on the importance of caring for axolotls in her own community. Her team invites schools to see the axolotls and “show [students] how we need to take care of the environment for animals and humans,” said Cruz Hernandez. She teaches children how to compost to create food for axolotls and oxygen for the atmosphere.

Axolotl larvae being observed.

Axolotls Inspire New Products

Anna Swenson, Vice President, Product Category Management, School Reading Events, shared her experience in creating axolotl products at Scholastic to meet the demand of kids around the country. The team keeps a close watch on new trends and spotted axolotls in Minecraft and a few other places.

Swenson shared that the team “had to chase the demand for axolotls” and developed ideas. They worked to identify audiences, formats, designs, and locations on where to sell these products.  Her team developed a diary, pen, squishy, and an Adopt an Axolotl kit and later began developing stories about the creatures. Swenson explained how these products sold at Scholastic Book Fairs allow children to not only learn about fun facts, but also the importance of taking care of the environment and the animals.