Anfibium: Axolotl Museum

Photos: SEDEMA

Anfibium is the new “Axolotl Museum and Amphibian Conservation Center.” An integral part of the Chapultepec Zoo, it’s also vital to the preservation of the axalotl species. The museum opened on Mexican National Axolotl Day, on February 1, 2023.

Nearly all amphibians are among the most endangered groups of animals with many species at risk of extinction. The museum is a key part of the City’s strategy for conserving and protecting them.

The museum opened in a house formerly used for elephants. The center supports education, research, and conservation. Its star resident is the axolotl which is endemic to the valley of Mexico. Upon opening the, the Anfibium was home to about 100 individuals at multiple stages of their development. Represented are four of Mexico’s 17 total species.

Visitors get an introduction to the entire environment. It includes trees like tule and giant ahuehuetes. The center has exhibition halls, workshops for kids, four laboratories for the study and reproduction of this organism, and a wetland recreating the environment of Xochimilco Lake.

Axolotls are an indicator species. That’s to say, the quality of their overall habitat and environment can be judged based on their own health and ability to thrive.

Admission to the museum is free and included with your admission to the rest of the Zoo.

Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.