Birch Aquarium at Scripps at UC San Diego is preparing to open its newest installation, “The Axolotl’s Garden,” on October 21.
The interactive space is designed to transport visitors directly into the realm of the axolotl, a critically endangered salamander native to Mexico. Blending live animal encounters with contemporary art and conservation science, the exhibit draws deep inspiration from the rich ecological and cultural heritage of the species’ home country.
Conceived as a living narrative, the exhibit explores the mythology and folklore surrounding the axolotl while focusing on biodiversity, climate resilience, habitat destruction, migration, and taking care of species.
There will be two dedicated axolotl habitats, alongside exhibits featuring other native Mexican aquatic species, such as the Tequila splitfin and the blind cave tetra.
The entrance pays tribute to Mexico’s ecosystems, welcoming guests with giant fabric monarch butterflies that frame a colorful mural of Lake Xochimilco by artist Itzel Islas, offering visitors a prime photo opportunity. Hand-painted graphic signage created by artists Oscar Ríos and David Mondragón (Grand Prestoz) further illustrates the story of Xochimilco’s delicate ecosystem.
Suspended above the garden, handcrafted paper lanterns shaped like axolotls showcase the animal’s remarkable color variations, ranging from gold and pink to brown and speckled gray. The lanterns were built entirely by Birch Aquarium’s in-house exhibit design team.
“‘The Axolotl’s Garden’’ leans on several San Diego-Tijuana artists “who are using their skills to have an impact on public awareness of the global biodiversity crisis,” said Megan Dickerson, Director of Exhibits at Birch Aquarium. “We hope that through next spring, this ‘garden’ of exhibits and programs will be as regenerative as the axolotl itself, transforming the public’s love for this amazing creature into inspiring action to protect endangered species worldwide.”
Guests attending the aquarium’s annual Halloween events will be among the first to explore the new installation. “The Axolotl Garden” is included with general admission tickets to Birch Aquarium. Get your tickets here!
