do axolotls completely live without water during their whole lifetime

Axolotls are amphibious creatures that require water for most, if not all, of their lives. They are not adapted to survive completely without water over their entire lifetime. Here are some reasons why:

1. Respiration: Axolotls breathe through gills when young and through the skin and lungs as adults. However, even as adults, they need to keep their skin moist and sometimes submerge themselves in water to assist with respiration.

2. Habitat: In the wild, axolotls are native to cold, freshwater canals and lakes. They are not designed to live on land like terrestrial animals.

3. Moisture: Axolotls have permeable skin that needs to remain moist to facilitate gas exchange, which is essential for their survival.

4. Diet: They primarily feed on aquatic organisms like worms, insects, and small fish.

5. Reproduction: Axolotls lay eggs in water, where the eggs hatch and the larvae develop.

In summary, while axolotls can move around on land for short periods, especially if they are juveniles or have adapted to certain captive conditions, they are not suited to live without water for extended periods. Their biology and life processes are deeply intertwined with water. To maintain their health, axolotls should be kept in a suitable aquatic environment.