The axolotl is an unusual-looking pet, but it’s the very reason that attracts people to them. They live underwater and have gills like a fish but legs similar to that of a frog. The axolotl can be kept in captivity with very strict water parameters and stable temperatures. Despite sharing some physical features of reptiles, they’re amphibians.
In this blog, we examine axolotls as pets and what you should know about caring for pet amphibians.
Axolotls, Like Many Pet Amphibians, Require Specialized Care
The axolotl belongs to the salamander family and is distinguished by its long body, finned tail, and frilled-framed face. An axolotl has four legs and a mouth that appears to be permanently grinning! What’s more, these creatures are only found in Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco in Mexico. Interestingly, the axolotl’s name is traced back to an ancient Aztec language that means “water dog”. Sadly, much of their natural habitat has been destroyed, and today, most axolotls are found in captivity, with less than 1,000 in the wild.
Axolotls have a 15-year lifespan, but caring for these creatures is not easy. They are very sensitive to water and temperature changes, and because of their size, they require quite a large tank. A pet axolotl can reach one foot in length, and they need space to swim and hide. These amphibians can make great pets if you know how to maintain them.
Axolotls Cannot Breathe on Land Like Reptiles
As an axolotl is not a reptile but an amphibian, it requires an aquatic environment. These animals have gills and only live in water. They can move on land for very short periods but need water to survive. When purchasing or adopting an axolotl as a pet, the first step is to create a conducive aquatic environment for these amphibians. They require clean water that should be maintained with weekly water changes.
A 20-gallon tank is the minimum requirement and should be horizontal in shape to accommodate the length of the axolotl. To maintain the health and happiness of these animals, axolotls need water with a pH between 7 and 8. They can a tolerate temperature of 65℉ but will become ill if ammonia and nitrates are in the water. For your new pet to feel comfortable, add a sandy substrate and include plants and hiding spots, allowing the axolotl to retreat if it needs to.
Axolotls Are Carnivorous Aquatic Salamanders
You might be surprised to discover that the smiley-faced axolotl is a predator that feeds on a variety of small creatures. Essentially, whatever they can get into their mouths, they will eat. These amphibians will consume small crustaceans, bloodworms, mollusks, and tiny fish. Some owners will provide their pets with small pieces of beef, chicken, and fish.
Feeding these animals is relatively easy, and all you need to do is add small amounts of food they can eat at a time. Don’t overfeed, as the remaining food will simply spoil the water. Only give your axolotl what it will eat, and if you notice it doesn’t have much of an appetite, you can mimic live food by wiggling the items with small tongs to get them interested. If you have juveniles, be sure to feed them daily, but adults only need feeding every other day.
Axolotls: Better as Display Pieces Than Interactive Pets
When you get a pet, you want your new animal companion to bond with you. Whether that means taking food from your hand or showing interest when you approach the tank, the question is if axolotls make friendly pets. While an axolotl can be attentive and friendly, they should not be handled. They may swim toward the glass before being fed, but they’re very independent animals. Axolotls do not need tankmates, and some experienced owners advise against housing multiple axolotls together.
Axolotls Are Sensitive to Sudden Environmental Changes
Well-bred axolotls are generally healthy when provided with pristine water conditions at the right temperature and pH levels. But when they do become ill, you’ll notice changes in their appetite, behavior, and physical condition. A sick axolotl will be lethargic and show no interest in food. It may spend a fair amount of time hiding and will shy away from the front of the tank even when you approach with treats.
Signs of illness in these pet amphibians include skin lesions, shrunken or curled gills, and erratic movement. Exercise good husbandry to prevent stress and disease resulting from excessive ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites. If your axolotl becomes ill, consider tubbing them in a back-up container until you understand the source of their condition. While quarantined, you should restabilize the aquarium’s water parameters, feed your axolotl a controlled diet, and closely monitor their behavior.
Why Choose the Axolotl as a Pet?
Axolotls may have a reptile-like body, but they are amphibians and live in water. Axolotls can make good pets if you are interested in a calm, exotic-looking animal. Yet, if you want your pet to live the longest possible life, you must commit to a fair amount of maintenance. These creatures are extremely sensitive to changes in their environment, from extremely bright lights and temperature instability to water pollution. Understanding your axolotl’s care needs can help you raise a healthy and happy pet that will enrich your life for years to come. Axolotls are easy to maintain with preparation and research.
