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Axolotls retain fertility throughout lifespan
Yuliia Haluza1, Beate Gruhl2, Anja Wagner2
1Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD), Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany. yuliia.haluza@tu-dresden.de.
BMC Biology
|February 14, 2026
Summary
Axolotls, known for regeneration and longevity, show a gradual decline in reproductive potential up to 4 years, but retain fertility throughout their lifespan, exhibiting limited reproductive senescence.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Comparative Physiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Axolotls possess remarkable regenerative capabilities and longevity.
- Unlike many ectotherms, axolotls may experience fertility decline after maturation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess axolotl reproductive potential across their lifespan.
- To investigate fertility decline and senescence in a long-lived vertebrate model.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of over 15 years of captive breeding records.
- Evaluation of egg number, egg quality, and mating success rates.
- Histological examination of ovarian tissue and oocyte preservation.
Main Results:
- Reproductive parameters (egg number, quality, mating success) peak post-maturation and decline gradually until age 4.
- Reproductive rates stabilize after early maturation.
- Axolotls preserve early-stage oocytes and exhibit follicular atresia with age.
Conclusions:
- Axolotls maintain functional fertility into advanced age, demonstrating limited reproductive senescence.
- This study provides insights into reproductive capacity maintenance in long-lived vertebrates.
- Axolotls serve as a valuable comparative model for aging and developmental research.
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