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United South Middle School

Critter Corner

Room 42’s Animal Spotlight

This special section of our USMS page highlights the amazing animals currently living in Room 42.

Say hello to Project Lebron! smiley face

a picture of our axolotl

 

 

 

This month, we’re featuring the leucistic axolotl! With its translucent-white skin and pinkish-red gills, this little creature is fascinating to observe. Part of the salamander family, the axolotl has a unique twist—it never fully “grows up” like its land-dwelling cousins. While not considered rare, axolotls remain aquatic and maintain their bright, colorful gills for their entire lives. 

What does it eat?
Our axolotl enjoys a healthy diet of sinking carnivore pellets and bloodworms. It’s a voracious eater, and students have the fun responsibility of feeding it once a week!

Conservation Status:
In the wild, leucistic axolotls are unfortunately critically endangered due to habitat loss and water pollution in their native Lake Xochimilco. Thankfully, they are now commonly bred and available in pet stores.