Axolotls as pets may not be a very common thing, but it is definitely something unique. Axolotls are a type of salamander. Unlike salamanders, they do not routinely undergo metamorphosis from the larvae. Or, gills, to the adult form and remain aquatic throughout their lives.
These Mexican walking fishes are sized between 6-18 inches long. It’s common for them to be about 9 inches. A length of more than 12 inches is rare.
For their Life Expectancy, they’re able to live for more than 20 years. But it’s more commonly around 10 years.
Axolotls in the wild
Wild Axolotls are from Lake Xochimilco in Mexico. Makes sense since their scientific name is Ambystoma mexicanum. In that area, they’re considered as endangered species because very little of these waters remain. Fortunately, this depleted species (due to the growing Mexico City) breed easily in captivity. They’re a popular subject for research due to their unique ability to regenerate entire limbs.
These salamanders can be found in a variety of colors. Including black, gray, gold, albino, white with black eyes, and other colors. The wild type, and most commonly seen in the remaining channels of Lake Xochimilco, is the almost black axolotl.
By kouichi tsunoda/EyeEm
Housing Axolotls
Axolotls can be quite large for a salamander, so at least a 15-20 gallon fish tank (aquarium) is recommended. Although the tank does not have to be full of water (the water only needs to be deeper than the total length) of the axolotl).
The tank should be kept in a cool room, away from strong sunlight. The water temperature should be kept cool, between 57-68° F(14-20° C). It should NEVER be allowed to exceed 75° F(24° C).
No special lighting is required for axolotls as pets (unlike reptiles). Also, in fact, you can see a place to get out of the light, such as a flower pot placed on its side or an aquarium-like castle.
Got Gravel?
If gravel is used at the bottom of the tank, it must be coarse gravel. The fine gravel can be ingested during feeding and cause an obstruction. Some homeowners simply choose to leave the tank bottom empty. Although others believe that this may stress the pet axolotls a bit. As they cannot be placed in the tank bottom without gravel.
Cannibalism
Juvenile axolotls can be cannibalistic to each other, so they breed best in separate enclosures. Adults can be housed together, but watch out for cannibalistic tendencies. Of course, if a body part is bitten by a tankmate, an axolotl can regenerate it over time. However, this should NEVER be encouraged or allowed.
Water for Axolotls
Most owners will find a filtered aquarium easier to maintain than an unfiltered one. But, unfiltered water will need frequent change. However, if you choose to have a filter in the tank, the filtration rate should be quite slow. Powerful filters that create strong currents should be avoided. Also, make sure the filter inlet is not in a position to catch the gills of your pet axolotl.
If you have a filter, safe cleaning will consist of using a siphon to vacuum the bottom of the tank. 20% water change should be done weekly. If you aren’t using a filter, you need to do a 20% water change every day or every other day. NEVER do a complete water change. This creates a situation where the water chemistry changes too drastically for your axolotl pet.
Tap water MUST have chlorine or chloramines (added during the water treatment process) removed using commercially available solutions. Never use distilled water and make sure the pH of the water stays between 6.5-7.5 (neutral).
What Axolotls Eat
In the wild, axolotls feed on snails, worms, crustaceans, small fish, and small amphibians.
In captivity, axolotls as pets can be fed a variety of brine shrimp, small strips of beef, or liver. They can also eat earthworms (captured wild worms can carry parasites), blood worms, tubifex worms (often fed on fish). Axolotls as pets can consume other frozen foods for commercial fish or fish pellets. (For example, salmon or trout pellets).
Pellets can also be purchased directly from the University of Kentucky. They have an Ambystoma Genetic Inventory Center. There, they raise/distribute axolotls to laboratories and classrooms. Unconsumed food should be cleaned from the tank daily to help keep the tank clean.
Terrestrial Axolotls
Axolotls can undergo metamorphosis into a terrestrial form. Although this can be stressful for the animal and is not seen frequently. The conditions under which this would naturally occur are not well understood. But we know that metamorphosis can be induced by changes in water characteristics. Or, by supplementing the axolotl with certain proportions of thyroid hormone. Of course, the landform of the axolotl has a completely different set of care requirements. Trying to induce metamorphosis is not recommended. This can put undue pressure on an axolotl, and can significantly shorten its lifespan.
