"Mystical Amphibian Venerated By Aztecs Nears Extinction"

"Scientists believe the dwindling axolotl, or Mexican salamander, holds secrets of aging and regeneration"

"MEXICO CITY — Dark, slimy and mysterious, the creature moves with a sluggishness reminiscent of prehistoric animals. But when it pulls in its legs, it can swim fast like a fish. If it loses a limb, it can grow it back.

The axolotl (pronounced ASH-oh-LOH-tuhl), as it was called by the Aztecs, is a fantastic amphibian that embodies the mysteries of Mexico’s ancient world. Revered for centuries, this Mexican wonder is under threat.

The Mexican salamander is found only in its original habitat, Xochimilco. The area contains the last remnants of a system of lakes and canals upon which the Aztec capital thrived. But Xochimilco is now a UNESCO World Heritage site at risk of being swallowed by massive urbanization and pollution in this sprawling capital of 22 million people."

Diana Ferrero reports for Aljazeera America February 15, 2015.