Zool. [the Aztec name.] A batrachian reptile (Siredon pisciforme, family Proteidæ) found in Mexican lakes, resembling the salamander in appearance, but, like all the Proteidæ, retaining throughout life the gills of its young state.
1786. Rees, Encycl., Axolotl … a singular fish found in the lake of Mexico.
1835. Penny Cycl., III. 187/1. Cuvier … was disposed to consider the axolotl as the tadpole of some of the larger species of American salamanders.
1855. Owen, Skel. & Teeth, 28. The axolotl has 4 fingers and 5 toes.
