Axolotl

Maximum longevity: 17 years (captivity) Observations: The axolotl is a classic case of neoteny in that animals become sexually mature without undergoing the final metamorphosis to the land-borne adult. Although very rare in the wild, it is possible to induce metamorphosis in the lab using thyroxine injections but animals die shortly afterwards (Brunst 1955). Like other similar species, the axolotl is capable of limb regeneration, the study of which could be of benefit to regenerative medicine (Roy and Gatien 2008). Anecdotal evidence, which seems possible, suggests these animals may live up to 25 years.