With reference to the ‘Axolotl’, a species of Salamander, consider the following statements: 1. They have the ability to regenerate lost or damaged limbs, hearts, lungs, and even parts of their brains. 2. They are cold-blooded vertebrates characterized by scales or scutes on their skin. 3. They are omnivorous animal. 4. They are categorized Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: |ForumIAS

Q. With reference to the ‘Axolotl’, a species of Salamander, consider the following statements:
1.They have the ability to regenerate lost or damaged limbs, hearts, lungs, and even parts of their brains.
2.They are cold-blooded vertebrates characterized by scales or scutes on their skin.
3.They are omnivorous animal.
4.They are categorized Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

[A] 1, 2 and 3 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1, 3 and 4 only

[D] 3 and 4 only

Answer: C

Notes:

Explanation –

Statements 1, 3 and 4 are correct. Axolotl is a species of salamander. Axolotls are native to the Xochimilco and Chalco lakes in central Mexico. Axolotls are known for their remarkable regenerative abilities. They can regenerate limbs, tails, jaws, and even parts of their brain and spinal cord. This regeneration is thought to be due to their neotenic nature, which means that they retain larval characteristics into adulthood.

Axolotls are omnivorous animals. Axolotls eat a variety of small invertebrates, such as worms, crustaceans, and insects. They will also eat small fish and amphibians.

The axolotl is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, pollution, and overcollection for the pet trade.

Statement 2 is incorrect. Axolotls are amphibians, not reptiles. Amphibians are cold-blooded vertebrates that have smooth, moist skin. Reptiles, on the other hand, have scales or scutes on their skin.

Source: ForumIAS

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