Buying an axolotl isn’t as simple as going to the pet store and bringing one of these critically endangered animals home. Or at least, it shouldn’t be! Ensuring that you purchase a healthy, well-bred axolotl takes time, patience, and research. While you certainly can buy an axolotl the same way you would a goldfish, it could mean dealing with both a sick animal and eventual heartbreak.
Here’s how to weed out the ethical, informed axolotl breeders from those trying to make a quick buck.
1. Know What a Healthy Axolotl Looks Like
When you visit an axolotl breeder, they should have various specimens for you to observe, including your prospective axolotl’s parents! During this initial consultation, it’s important to know what a healthy axolotl looks like. That way, you can decide for yourself whether the breeder raises axolotls in clean, safe conditions. Be on the lookout for these “green flags”:
- Fluffy gills fanned around axolotls’ faces
- Clean water
- Axolotls relaxing in caves or under leaf cover
- Males and females in different tanks (or in tanks with dividers)
- Axolotls grouped by size
- Clear eyes
- Skin free of infections, lesions, or flaking
Here’s a red flag: too many axolotls in the same tank. As a rule of thumb, an aquarium should have 20 gallons per axolotl. So, having two axolotls would mean having a tank that’s at least 40 gallons. Some seasoned axolotl owners even say that gallonage is too small, and 30 gallons per axolotl is best. If you see many axolotls packed in the same aquarium, this could mean they’re not being appropriately taken care of. Axolotls are solitary creatures and may resort to cannibalism when stressed!
2. Ask for Genealogical Documentation
Axolotls are native to two lakes in Mexico. Right now, they’re a critically endangered species with anywhere from 50 to 1,000 left in the wild. In recent years, axolotls have become incredibly popular pets, but because there are so few left, this has led to a lot of inbreeding. This may involve mating axolotls with close relatives, such as a male axolotl with its mother. Many breeders will do this to isolate desired traits (such as an axolotl’s pink coloring). Some breeders may resort to inbreeding not out of malice, but simply because they don’t have much genetic diversity in the few axolotls they do have.
Inbreeding can lead to many health conditions that can seriously impact an axolotl’s life, from congenital defects to shortened lifespans. Some poorly bred axolotls may morph into salamanders by the time they reach 10 months, requiring specialized care as mature adults.
When considering business with an axolotl breeder, ask for genealogical records that document the axolotl’s lineage and genetic predispositions. An ethical breeder will readily furnish this information; an inexperienced or unethical breeder will have dozens of reasons why they don’t have these details.
3. Consult with Other Axolotl Owners Online
There are dozens of online communities where new owners can get recommendations for breeders. Here, you can read reviews about prospective breeders, identify red flags, and otherwise narrow down your search.
While you may feel secure doing business with a corporate axolotl dealer, you may benefit from meeting with a local breeder. You can find many local breeders on forums and message boards. Not only does this allow for easier accessibility, but you can also visit the breeding facility, feel free to ask questions, and rest assured that you’re making informed decisions.
4. Ask Breeders Some Questions
A key part of finding an ethical axolotl breeder involves advocating for yourself—and that sometimes means asking some hard-hitting questions. After all, researching a breeder isn’t just about reading online reviews or visiting a facility; it’s about getting the information you need to remain an informed consumer.
For example, if you’re meeting with a local axolotl breeder, ask about their return policy. For instance, if your axolotl has a genetic condition, will they take the animal back and refund you? How long would a return policy last? An ethical breeder would take back an axolotl no matter its age. While the issue of money is a separate matter, an ethical breeder would be personally invested in the well-being of their axolotls and wouldn’t want them being rehomed without their knowledge.
If you’re ordering an axolotl from a breeder online, don’t hesitate to ask for a virtual meeting. Take this opportunity to ask about the breeder’s experience, how they care for their animals, and how they conduct genetic testing. Their answers will guide whether you should move forward with buying an axolotl from them.
5. Expect to Answer Some Questions Yourself
As noted, many axolotl breeders have a vested interest in their animals’ well-being, even after they go to new homes. Before bringing your new pal home, a breeder may ask some basic questions to ensure you’re a good fit for their axolotl. These questions could include:
- What experience do you have caring for aquatic animals?
- Do you own or lease your home? If you rent, does your apartment allow for aquariums?
- Do you have a relationship with a veterinarian who treats exotic animals?
- Do you already have a tank cycled and suited to an axolotl’s ideal water conditions?
- Have you owned an axolotl in the past?
Be honest when answering these questions! It’s okay to admit that you haven’t owned an axolotl before. By being transparent about your situation and knowledge, the breeder can offer information tailored to your experience level.
