what is the main living environment and the species classification of mexican salamanders

Mexican salamanders (Ambystoma mexicanum), also known as the axolotl, primarily live in aquatic environments. They are native to the lake systems of central Mexico, particularly in Lake Xochimilco and the surrounding area. Historically, they have been found in Lakes Chalco and Xochimilco, but now their wild population is critically endangered due to habitat loss from pollution and urbanization.

Regarding the species classification:

1. Kingdom: Animalia (Animals)
2. Phylum: Chordata (Chordates)
3. Class: Amphibia (Amphibians)
4. Order: Urodela (Salamanders and Newts)
5. Family: Ambystomatidae
6. Genus: Ambystoma (Mole Salamanders)
7. Species: A. mexicanum (Axolotl)

The axolotl is a neotenic salamander, retaining its larval features throughout its life, such as gills and a cartilaginous mouth apparatus, despite being sexually mature. This distinct characteristic enables it to remain in an aquatic habitat. Axolotls are remarkable for their ability to regenerate a large proportion of their body parts, including limbs, spinal cord, heart, and other tissues, which has made them valuable for scientific research.