Mexican Fishermen Become Guardians of the Endangered Axolotl

Axolotl in its natural habitat

For generations, the fishermen of a high-altitude Mexican lake have cast their nets to provide for their families. Now, they’re casting a lifeline to a remarkable creature on the brink of extinction: the axolotl.

Froylan Correa, a seasoned fisherman, has dedicated his life to the lake. But these days, his work goes beyond fishing. He’s part of a community-led effort to protect the axolotl, a unique amphibian known for its feathery gills, resembling a lion’s mane, and its astonishing ability to regenerate lost limbs.

Protecting the Axolotl: A Community Effort

The fishermen’s conservation work is crucial. They carefully raise axolotl hatchlings, nurturing them in a dedicated achoque (the local name for axolotl) protection reserve.

Israel Correa, a relative of Froylan, explains the process: “After the hatchlings have grown enough, they are moved to the community’s achoque protection reserve, where the fishermen care for them until they are ready to be released into the lake.”

Hope for the Future

This hands-on approach offers a beacon of hope for the axolotl. By actively participating in their conservation, these fishermen are ensuring that future generations can witness the magic of this extraordinary creature.