Axolotl CARE: DETAILED CARE GUIDE FOR Axolotls

Scientific Name: Ambystoma mexicanum

Common Name: Axolotl

Family: Ambystomatidae

Origin: Xochimilco Lake complex, Mexico City, Mexico

Maintaining the correct water parameters is crucial for the health and longevity of axolotls.

• Temperature: 60°F - 70°F 
  • Ideal temperature: 65°F (18°C)
  • Temperatures above 74°F (23°C) can cause stress and are harmful.
• pH: 6.5 - 8.0
• Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: < 20 ppm (preferably < 10 ppm)

Water Changes: Maintaining proper water quality is essential to the overall health and well-being of your axolotl. Water parameters should be tested weekly to ensure they remain within the optimal range, and partial water changes should be performed as needed to correct any imbalances. Always use a water conditioner to dechlorinate tap water before adding it to the aquarium, as chlorine and chloramines are harmful to axolotls.  

Axolotls are carnivorous and require a high-protein diet.

• Staple Diet:
  • Earthworms (highly nutritious and readily accepted)
  • Axolotl pellets (with high protein content)
  • Bloodworms (frozen or live)
  • Blackworms
• Supplementary Foods:
  • Brine shrimp (frozen or live)
  • Small pieces of raw, lean meat (occasionally)
  • Shrimp (occasionally)

Feeding Frequency: Juvenile axolotls should be fed daily, while adults can be fed every other day. Feed them as much as they can eat in about 2-3 minutes.

Axolotls have specific requirements and can be aggressive towards fish or other tank mates. They are best kept alone, but some fish can coexist with them under careful monitoring.

Compatible Tank Mates:

• Other Axolotls:
  • Keep axolotls of similar size together to prevent cannibalism. Ensure enough space to reduce stress.
• Non-Axolotl Tank Mates:
  • Some shrimp species (like ghost shrimp) may coexist temporarily but could be eaten.
  • Guppies may coexist but could be eaten. 

Tank Mates to Avoid:

• Fish:
  • Avoid any fish that are nippy or aggressive (e.g., tetras, barbs).
  • Avoid bottom dwellers that may compete for space (e.g., corydoras).
  • Small fish might be eaten by the axolotl.
  • Fish with long fins may be nipped by the axolotl.
• Other Animals:
  • Frogs, toads, and turtles are not recommended due to different care requirements and potential aggression.
  • Snails can damage the Axolotls coating and can be a hazard if eaten. 

• Aquarium Size: A minimum of 20 gallons for one adult axolotl is recommended. Increase tank size by 10 gallons for each additional axolotl.
• Substrate: Use fine sand or a bare-bottom tank to avoid impaction. Avoid gravel as axolotls may ingest it.
• Filtration: Use a gentle filter (sponge filters are ideal) to avoid strong currents, which can stress axolotls.
• Hiding Places: Provide plenty of hiding spots with caves, PVC pipes, and plants (real or artificial). Axolotls need places to retreat and feel secure.
• Lighting: Axolotls do not require special lighting. Low to moderate lighting is best as they are sensitive to bright light.
• Tank Setup: Maintain a clean environment with regular substrate siphoning and water changes. Axolotls are messy eaters, so frequent cleaning is necessary.
• Handling: Minimize handling as much as possible. Axolotls have delicate skin that can be easily damaged.

By maintaining optimal water conditions, providing a suitable diet, and carefully selecting tank mates, you can ensure a healthy and thriving environment for your axolotl.