Ambystoma

/æmˈbɪstəmə/ noun

Definition

A genus of salamanders, particularly the axolotl, found in North America and known for their ability to stay in larval form throughout their lives.

Etymology

From Greek amby- (blunt) + stoma (mouth), referring to the rounded mouth shape of these salamanders. Coined in scientific nomenclature in the early 1800s.

Kelly Says

Axolotls, the most famous Ambystoma species, can stay babies forever if kept in cool water—they're literally 'forever young' due to neoteny, and this weird salamander has become a trendy aquarium pet and scientific research star.

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