do axolotls mainly use their gills to breathe

Axolotls are unusual among salamanders because they retain their larval characteristics throughout their lives, a condition known as neoteny. This means that axolotls retain their gills even in adulthood, which is something most other salamanders lose as they metamorphose into adults.

While they do have lungs, these are not fully developed and are generally not functional for respiration. Instead, adult axolotls primarily rely on their gills to extract oxygen from the water. The gills are like feathery structures located on the sides of the head, which work similarly to fish gills, allowing the axolotl to efficiently absorb oxygen.

However, it's important to note that in captivity, some axolotls can develop lung function much better than others. This is often due to genetic factors and environmental conditions. But in general, gills remain the primary respiratory organs for axolotls in both their natural environment and when kept as pets.

It's this unique reliance on gills that makes axolotls such an interesting and distinctive species of amphibian.