How can axolotl be both critically endangered and so cheap and available in pet stores?

Question

How can axolotl be both critically endangered and so cheap and available in pet stores?

In: 7276

Answer 1

The destruction of their (small, relative to many species) habitat coincided with scientific interest in researching regeneration.

Thank a scientist – the demand for them in the lab led to massive breeding projects, which eventually had excess stock translate into availability as pets.

As to the habitat loss, don’t forget Mexico City used to be a lake.