Archive for the ‘Amphibians’ Category

Originating in the waters under Mexico City, the axolotl or ajolote is a fascinating creature to study and research. They are primarily known for the ability to regenerate severed limbs, which is the primary reason scientists choose to study this species.  The adults do not go through the metamorphosis and remain in an aquatic state, unlike other salamanders which change from aquatic to land by the time they are adult. The young larvae of the axolotl salamander are often confused with the tiger salamander and the waterdog, but are different from both.

As a result of shrinking habitat and introduction of non native species of fish, the axolotl is currently on the red list, which indicates the endangered status. The axolotl has been a source of food for the native human population for hundreds of years and the growth of Mexico City has increased the pressure on them to adapt and survive.

The full grown axolotl ranges from six to eighteen inches, with external gills and wide heads. The limbs are not developed as much as other species of salamander. The natural colors are brown or black with mutations occurring as albino golden or pink with black eyes.  The females have wider bodies then the males do. Feeding for both genders is via suction and they primarily feed on worms, insects and small fish that are sucked into the stomach by the axolotl.

The axolotl are easier to breed in captivity then other types of salamanders. Some of the current research being done with iodine stimulants to overcome the problem of the axolotl being adult and not changing as other species do. The viability of the embryo is one of the ways that scientists study the axolotl because it is very easy to see defects that occur as the development happens. Regeneration of whole limbs and transplant of limbs are also important studies being done by researchers. The ability to grow limbs after the loss of the original is one feature that makes the axolotl popular as exotic pets.

Axolotl Salamander – Exotic Pets – Exotic Salamander

The Poison Dart Frog, from the family Dendrobatidae, is one of the most beautiful species to look at in the wild, however, as their name suggests, these frogs are poisonous to both other animals and humans. One type, the gold Poison Dart, contains enough venom to kill up to 10 full-sized humans.

Physical Characteristics

Poison Dart Frogs wear vibrant colors in bright shades of blue, orange, green, gold, yellow, copper, red and black, according to the “National Geographic” website. This type of frog ranges from one inch to two and a half inches in length. Over 100 types of Poison Dart Frogs exist in the world today including a black and green specie, a red bodied amphibian with blue legs that look like the frog is wearing jeans and a yellow and black frog. The colors shown on a Poison Dart indicate what area the specie lives in.

Habitat and Location

Poison Dart Frogs reside in central and south America in the rainforests of these countries and in some areas on the Hawaiian Islands. This type of frog can live up to 15 years in the humid conditions that surround a South American rainforest.

Diet

The vibrant amphibian prefers a diet of small insects including spiders, termites and other small creatures that scurry across the forest floor. The frog uses its excellent vision to spot the tiny prey it feeds on. The Poison Dart captures its prey by snaring them with its sticky tongue.

Breeding Facts

The male amphibian uses a high pitch sound to attract females for the purpose of completing a courtship ritual. The female finds leaves to lay her eggs on once the courtship is completed. Male Poison Dart Frogs return every so often to check on the eggs for a two-week period until they hatch. Once born, these tiny tadpoles swim up onto the male frog’s back, attaching themselves to a mucus secretion. The male carries the tadpoles to a safe location such as in a small tree hole where he drops them off and they stay until they grow into frogs which takes up to three months.

Poison Dart Frog – Dendrobatidae – Gold Poison Dart