Axolotls are aquatic creatures that are similar to the tiger salamander. They are not a fish but rather an amphibian. Due to the fact that they never fully go through the metamorphic process, they spend their entire life under water. Although closely related to water dogs and mudpuppies they are their own species but in the same category as toads and frogs. Their colors can vary greatly from browns or greys to albino and leucistic.
Originally from Mexico, in recent years they have made their way into the home aquarium. They are fascinating and intriguing creatures that can make a great addition to your home. Relatively easy to look after, they do have some requirements to live peacefully in the home aquarium.
Since wild species are located in the mountains of Mexico they require cold water. The colder the water, the more they like it. They can survive in temperatures that drop down to 7 degrees Celsius. Overheating can be more of a problem, so the aquarium should not be directly in the sun or reach temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius.
They are slow moving and enjoy walking along the bottom of the aquarium. They are easily cut by sharp rocks so it’s best to provide them with a sand substrate. Some people prefer not to use a substrate at all for ease of cleaning, but I find personally the glass is too slippery for them, not to mention, I like the little footprints they leave in the sand. Ultimately it is your decision. They like to hang out together in groups, so it’s best to have more than one.
These guys can grow to be quite large, growing to a maximum size of 12-15 inches long, so they will require a large aquarium for best growth. When deciding on an aquarium for them, it’s better to find a tank that is short and wide, rather than long and skinny. They spend most of their time on the bottom of the tank, so tank height is not an issue. As a matter of fact they don’t like to be in deep water, water only needs to be as deep as the length of your axolotl. A 40 gallon breeder tank is the perfect size to house 3 or 4 Axies (as they are sometimes called).
Axolotls do well in water with a higher ph, but their ph can be anywhere between 6.5 – 8. My ph is 8.3 and my Axies thrive in my hard, well water.
As for their diet, Axies are carnivores and prefer a meat based diet. Due to the fact that they are mainly bottom dwellers, sinking pellets, such as salmon pellets, work the best. They have wide mouths and fiercely suck up their food like a little vacuum cleaner. Bloodworms are also an excellent choice, especially during adolescence.
As for tank mates, it would be best to keep them by themselves; large fish will harm their delicate bodies. Although if they lose a leg, they have the ability to regenerate their lost limb. Smaller fish will most likely be a snack for these carnivorous little creatures. They can be housed with small fish, like guppies, but be prepared to lose a few.
Their eyes are delicate and very sensitive to bright lights. A light is not required but if you like to see them, a regular aquarium bulb will suffice. I have two lights on my aquarium and only turn one light on. This leaves enough darkness on one end of the aquarium if the light bothers them.
Axolotls have become more popular in recent years and easier for the average hobbyist to find. If you have an empty aquarium, why not try an Axie? With basic requirements these guys are relatively easy keepers. Cool water, regular water changes, enough space to comfortably move around and a varied diet these guys, will entertain you for years.
Sources:
John P. Clare, Axolotls. The Fascinating Mexican Axolotl and Tiger Salamander. http://www.axolotl.org/. Accessed August 5, 2011.
Susanne Haagsman - My name is Susanne Haagsman. I live on a ranch in northern BC, Canada. I enjoy staying at home with my family, pets and livestock. Eight ...
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