Lake Xochimilco
Where Does The Axoltol Come From?
The axolotl is native only to Lake Xochimilco in the Vally of Mexico. Lake Xochimilco is classified as a hydrological basin. The lake spans 2 miles long with an average width of 200 feet. The lake is roughly 10.26 square miles.
Lake Xochimilco is a popular tourist destination located in the southern part of Mexico City. The lake is a remnant of a vast system of waterways that once covered the Valley of Mexico. It is known for its picturesque scenery, which includes colorful boats, floating gardens, and small islands called chinampas. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to see the sights and experience the local culture. Lake Xochimilco is also an important ecological reserve, home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Despite facing threats from pollution and overuse, efforts are underway to protect and preserve this unique ecosystem for future generations.
What Other Animals Live In Lake Xochimilco?
Lake Xochimilco is home to all kinds of life in and out of water. The beloved axolotl is not the only anphibian in the lake. Just a few anphibians found in the lake are the Plateau Toad, Dwarf Mexican Tree Frog, Mexican Tiger Salamander, and the Red-Legged False Brook Salamander. Some fish native to Lake Xochimilco include: the Mesa Silverslide, Goldfish, Green Swordtail, and many more.
Plateau Toad
Dwarf Mexican Tree Frog
Mexican Tiger Salamander
Red-Legged False Brook Salamander
Mesa Silverslide
Goldfish
Green Swordtail
How Has The Pollution of Lake Xochimilco Lead To The Endangerment Of The Axolotl?
The pollution of Lake Xochimilco is a major factor contributing to the extinction of the axolotl. The axolotl is a critically endangered species of salamander that is native to the lake. Here are some ways in which pollution is affecting the axolotl population:
Contamination of Water: The water in Lake Xochimilco has become contaminated with pollutants from agricultural and urban runoff, as well as untreated sewage. These pollutants can be toxic to the axolotl, affecting its immune system and increasing the risk of disease.
Competition from Non-Native Species: Pollution has also led to the introduction of non-native species into the lake, which compete with the axolotl for food and other resources. This competition has further reduced the axolotl's chances of survival.
Reduced Reproductive Success: Pollution in the lake has also been shown to affect the reproductive success of the axolotl, leading to a decline in the number of offspring produced and the survival of those offspring.
Efforts are being made to improve the water quality of Lake Xochimilco, including initiatives to reduce pollution and increase the amount of oxygen in the water. However, the axolotl population remains critically endangered and continued efforts are needed to ensure its survival.