In recent years, interest in axolotls has grown, a species exclusive to Mexico that has melted more than one heart. We have seen them in cartoons, aquariums, video games, pets, and even as an image on 50-peso bills. Nevertheless, Luis Zambrano Gonzalez, head of the Ecological Restoration Laboratory of the UNAM Institute of Biology, affirms that “it is not a species if it is not in its habitat.” Adopt a virtual axolotl!
Zambrano, who has worked for 20 years in the rescue of Xochimilco and in the conservation of the axolotl, commented at a press conference that funds are needed to continue his work.
“We must conserve the species, and let it reproduce in its natural ecosystem, which is in our country.” The expert pointed out that in the last census in 2014, there were only 36 axolotls per square kilometer in Xochimilco. In past decades there were thousands or hundreds of individuals.
Adopt an axolotl, how to save them
The scientists identified both the urbanization of Xochimilco, the poor water quality of the lake, full of industrial waste, and the species induced in the seventies, carp and tilapia.
To resolve this, the refuge-chinampa project develops a series of filters that improve water quality.
Diana Laura Vázquez Mendoza, coordinator of the international campaign called “Adop Axolotl”, explained the two donation schemes. Adopt an axolotl!
Invite an axolotl to dinner: for the maintenance supplies of the colony with only 200 pesos.
Pimp the house of the axolotl: directed to the maintenance of chinampas-refuge in Xochimilco with 100 pesos.
However, if you want to contribute more, you can adopt an axolotl or its home for one or six months and up to a year.
Those who donate will receive informative posters, postcards, name an axolotl or the chinampas-refuge, depending on the amount. Ready to adopt an axolotl? Here you can see all the details.
Editorial Team The editorial team of EMPRENDEDOR.com, which for more than 27 years has worked to promote entrepreneurship.