what are other names of the mexican salamanders

Mexican salamanders are commonly known as axolotls. They have several other names reflecting their unique characteristics and cultural significance:

1. Ajolote: This is the Nahuatl (a language spoken by the Aztecs) word for this creature, which directly translates to "water monster" or "water dog."

2. Mud Puppy: Due to their large size and the muddy habitats they often inhabit.

3. Mexican Walking Fish: Although they are not true fish, they resemble them because they have gills and live in water. "Walking" refers to their movement on the bottom of the water using their limbs.

4. Nymphs: The term nymph is used sometimes to refer to certain juvenile stages of amphibians, and axolotls famously maintain this juvenile form throughout their lives even when mature.

5. Regenerating Giants: A more scientific and less traditional name, given to them due to their impressive regenerative abilities, which allow them to regenerate lost body parts such as limbs, spinal cord, heart, and other organs.

6. Mexican Salamander: This is a general term often used to describe them due to their geographical origin and their belonging to the salamander family.

7. Ambystoma mexicanum: This is the scientific (Latin) name of the Mexican salamander, which is based on the genus Ambystoma to which they belong.

The axolotl is a fascinating species not only for its unique appearance but also because of its exceptional ability to regenerate lost parts of its body, making it a popular subject of study in regenerative medicine and developmental biology.