Chapter 1
The water monster of Mexico's floating gardens
Chapter 2
The superpower of eternal youth
Chapter 3
The ultimate self-healing master
Chapter 4
From Aztec gods to Minecraft stars
YOUR GOAL
Master of The smiling water monster of Xochimilco
Ch 1 · The water monster of Mexico's floating gardens
misslily The Axolotl of Lake Xochimilco
I'm never gonna grow up, no I won't (Oh-oh, no I won't!) Rocking crimson gills in my floating home (Yeah, my floating home!)
misslily The award-winning purple 50-peso bill from the Bank of Mexico quickly disappeared from daily trade as millions chose
misslily Animated characters explore the lush, plant-filled canals of the Xochimilco floating gardens.
Fun Fact
Aztec cuisine: Although revered as a god, the Aztecs also considered the axolotl a delicacy, often serving them roasted in corn husks with tamales.
Glossary
chinampa (noun)
An artificial agricultural island built on a shallow lake bed, historically used in Mesoamerica. These traditional Aztec plots in Xochimilco serve as the last remaining wild habitat for the axolotl.
An artificial agricultural island built on a shallow lake bed, historically used in Mesoamerica. These traditional Aztec plots in Xochimilco serve as the last remaining wild habitat for the axolotl.
Quiz
What is the name of the lake system near Mexico City that is the axolotl's only native home?
Quiz
Which 19th-century explorer wrote about the vanquished Aztecs being forced to eat the axolotl?
Quiz
Which invasive fish species poses one of the greatest ecological threats to wild axolotls in Xochimilco?
Quiz
According to Aztec mythology, what was the god Xolotl trying to escape when he transformed into an axolotl?
Quiz
What is the name of the ancient Aztec floating garden system where axolotls live?
Quiz
Which Aztec god did the axolotl supposedly transform from to avoid being sacrificed?
Quiz
Why are many of Mexico's 50-peso axolotl banknotes kept out of daily circulation?