do mexican salamanders completely survive without water during their entire lifetime

No, Mexican axolotls do not survive without water for their entire lifetime. As amphibians, they are adapted to live in moist and aquatic environments where their skin can remain hydrated for respiration and other vital functions. Outside of water, their ability to survive is limited, and it varies depending on environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature.

Here are some key points:

1. Respiration: Axolotls primarily rely on their lungs for respiration as adults but also use cutaneous respiration through their moist skin.

2. Hydration: They need water or a moist environment to prevent dehydration and maintain the health of their skin, which is essential for their survival.

3. Feeding and Digestion: Axolotls hunt and consume prey in water, as their digestion process is adapted to an aquatic setting.

4. Reproduction: Their breeding cycle and the development of their larvae take place in water.

Even though they have some capacity to move on land, axolotls are not designed to live outside water for extended periods. Their biology is deeply integrated with the need for a moist or aquatic environment for proper respiration, hydration, feeding, digestion, and reproduction.

In summary, Mexican axolotls cannot survive without water for their entire lifetime. An aquatic or moist environment is crucial for their health, survival, and overall well-being.