The Lake Patzcuaro Salamander lives exclusively in Lake Patzcauro in Mexico. They feed on invertebrates, small fish and aquatic eggs. The feathery structures you can see on either side of their heads are actually their gills, which flare out when submerged underwater.
Fun fact – A convent of nuns in Mexico is one of the biggest driving forces behind the international conservation effort to save this species!
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Ecology
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Threats
These salamanders are greatly affected by pollution – the depth of Lake Patzcuaro has been reduced by 2.6 metres due to eroded soil deposits alone. They are also susceptible to parasites carried by other species within the lake, and are caught for human consumption and medicinal use.
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Conservation
The Lake Patzcuaro salamander is listed on CITES appendix II and is further protected by a partnership between the Mexican government, local communities and a university who use community engagement to protect the species and its habitat. They are bred in captivity with a view to repopulating natural habitats, although much more action is required to control pollution and invasive species in the lake.
Nature’s SAFE stores samples to protect the genetic diversity of this critically endangered species. With their population number so low, this work in vitally important to their survival.
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Preserved January 2024
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At least 50 distinct genetic lines are needed to save each species.
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