Axolotl

/ˈæk.sə.lɑt.əl/ noun

Definition

A large aquatic salamander from Mexico that retains its larval features throughout its life, often kept as a pet.

Etymology

From Nahuatl (Aztec language) 'axolotl' (from 'atl' meaning 'water' + 'xolotl' meaning 'monster' or 'servant'). The name was given by Aztecs who first encountered these creatures.

Kelly Says

Axolotls are biological superstars—they can regenerate almost any body part and stay forever young through a process called neoteny, making them crucial for understanding how other animals (including humans) might heal, and they've been studied since the 1800s.

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