Inside The Race To Save Wild Axolotls
Summary
This episode explores the critical efforts to save wild axolotls, charismatic amphibians native solely to Lake Xochimilco. Ecologist Luis Zambrano and molecular biologist Alejandro Maeda-Obregón discuss the drastic population decline and innovative conservation strategies, including using environmental DNA (eDNA) to track populations and creating plant-filtered refuges in collaboration with local farmers. They also emphasize the axolotl's profound cultural significance in Mexico, offering a message of hope for global conservation.Episode description
Axolotls are one of the most charismatic and beloved amphibians out there. But did you know that there’s only one place in the whole world where you can find them in the wild? It’s Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City.
There, scientists are scrambling to save them from extinction by creating refuges, using environmental DNA to track them down, and tag-teaming with the farmers who work on the lake. Luis Zambrano, one of the world’s leading axolotl experts, and Alejandro Maeda-Obregón, a molecular biologist, talk with Host Flora Lichtman about their work to protect these beloved amphibians.
Guests:
Dr. Luis Zambrano is a leading expert on axolotls and an ecologist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
Dr. Alejandro Maeda-Obregón is a molecular ecologist at University College London who studies rare and endangered species.
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