do axolotls always completely live without water for their entire lifetime

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, are a unique species of salamander that can survive in both aquatic and semi-aquatic environments. They are not fully terrestrial creatures and cannot live without water for their entire lifetime. Here are some key points about axolotl habitats: 1. **Aquatic Stage**: Axolotls spend most of their lives in water, either as larvae or adults. They breathe through gills when they are young and then develop lungs as they grow up. 2. **Semi-Aquatic Capabilities**: As they mature, axolotls develop limbs and lungs, which allow them to move around on land for short periods. However, they still require a moist environment and need to access water regularly to keep their skin moist and to facilitate respiration. 3. **Water Needs**: Axolotls cannot survive indefinitely on land. They need to stay moist and periodically return to water to prevent dehydration and maintain their health. 4. **Life Cycle**: In their natural habitat, axolotls usually remain aquatic throughout their lives. Even when they can move on land, they prefer to stay near water sources. 5. **Habitat**: Axolotls are native to areas around Lake Xochimilco in Mexico, where they inhabit shallow, calm bodies of water. In summary, axolotls have adapted to live in both water and moist terrestrial environments, but they cannot survive without water for their entire lifetime. They still require a consistent source of moisture to thrive, whether it's in a natural aquatic habitat or a properly maintained aquatic ecosystem in captivity.