Axolotls as Pets

What is an axolotl?

The axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is an amphibian that spends its entire life in the water. It is a type of salamander that has unique similarities to fish. Axolotls have visible external gills and a paddle-like tail that they keep their entire life. Unlike other amphibians, they cannot metamorphose to live on the land. 

Axolotls in captivity may live up to 10–15 years. Most adults reach about 23–25 cm (9–10 in) in length. Adult males have a noticeable bulge around their vent and black nails.

Axolotls have a unique response to loss of a limb or tail due to injury. If a leg or part of the tail is lost or removed, the Axolotl will completely regenerate a new leg or tail. This process may take several months, but the new part will look brand new.

Axolotls are native to Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco in Mexico City. Most axolotls in the pet trade in the United States and Canada are offspring of domestically raised stock. In the wild, they are considered critically endangered due to loss of habitat. 

What type of housing does an axolotl need?

Axolotls must be kept in an aquarium-type set up similar to a freshwater fish aquarium:

• Remove chlorine from tap water.
• Install an aquarium filter. Water flow from the tank filter should be buffered for a relatively stagnant flow.
• Use a flooring substrate the axolotl cannot consume (avoid small rocks or sand). 
• You may use a light on top of the tank, but it must be a low-level light or placed on a dim setting. 
• Plants, rocks, or ornamental decorative pieces are beneficial to provide hiding places for your axolotl.

What does an axolotl eat?

Axolotls are carnivores that consume a variety of invertebrate prey. Some commonly available food items include:

• bloodworms (frozen)
• blackworms (fresh or frozen)
• portions of earthworms (night crawlers)
• brine shrimp (frozen)
• small feeder fish 
• salmon pellets 

Young axolotls should be offered food daily. Adults do well when fed every 2–3 days. Only offer food that your axolotl can consume entirely in 2–5 minutes. Since axolotls tend to gulp their food, it is important that the aquarium flooring is not small rocks or sand, as they may swallow some of the substrate and cause an intestinal blockage.

What type of health problems do axolotls have?

• Axolotls are prone to foreign body ingestion because they gulp their food. If there are objects smaller than their head on the cage floor or where food accumulates, they may consume them. Small rocks, pebbles, or sand can easily be ingested.
• Obesity is a common problem in axolotls. If they are fed too much or too often, they can become obese, which shortens their lifespan.
• Poor water quality can cause a variety of problems. Excess nitrite content in the water may cause axolotls’ eyes to bulge, water temperatures above 24°C (75°F) will cause them to become sluggish, float uncontrollably and become susceptible to bacterial and/or fungal infections.
• Rapid or forceful water flow can cause stress and damage the external gills.
• Anorexia may occur due to poor water quality, intestinal parasitism, or bacterial/fungal infections.

Axolotls are fascinating and unique amphibians that require specific care to thrive in captivity. By providing a suitable environment and a balanced diet, you can enjoy their companionship for years to come.