How Do Axolotls Breathe?
Axolotls are aquatic animals, which means they live in water. They don’t use lungs like you do. Instead, they breathe mainly through gills that stay on the outside of their heads.
The Crowning Gills
Axolotls have feathery gills that look like a crown or frilly hair sticking out from the sides and back of their heads. These gills are very big and have many little filaments that increase the surface area for taking in oxygen from the water.
How the Gills Work
As water passes over the gills, oxygen in the water moves into the blood inside the gills, and carbon dioxide moves out into the water. The blood then carries the oxygen to the axolotl’s muscles and organs.
Other Ways They Breathe
Axolotls can also absorb some oxygen through their skin when the water is very moist and clean. They don’t breathe air like frogs do, but they can gulp air if the water isn’t deep enough for them to get enough oxygen from the water alone.
Fun Facts
- Axolotls keep their gills as adults, which is unusual because many animals lose their juvenile features later.
- Their gills can grow longer if the axolotl needs more oxygen or in warmer water.
- Healthy water with good oxygen levels helps axolotls breathe easily.