Science & Nature · 2

What term describes the biological phenomenon where axolotls retain juvenile physical features throughout their adult lives?

Answer

Neoteny

Neoteny is the retention of juvenile characteristics into adulthood. Axolotls are a classic example, keeping their external gills, flat heads, and larval body proportions for their entire lives without undergoing the metamorphosis typical of other salamanders.

💡 Did you know?

Axolotls permanently retain juvenile features into adulthood, a phenomenon called neoteny. They rarely metamorphose unless forced by stress or low water levels.

Other options people guess

  • Metamorphosis
  • Paedogenesis
  • Allometry

Topics

  • biology
  • axolotl
  • amphibians
  • neoteny

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