Axolotl Fish: Everything You Need to Know About Caring For and Raising Them

There are more than 6,000 species of amphibians in the world. Unlike reptiles, they’re born with gills and can breathe underwater.

Some examples include frogs, salamanders, toads, and newts. Axolotls also belong to this group.

What is an axolotl? They’re aquatic creatures that have plump bodies, short legs, and feathery external gills. Not only that, but they also have the ability to regenerate their body parts.

Did you recently get an axolotl fish? Looking for a guide on how to care for these critters? If so, you’re at the right place.

Keep reading for some axolotl care tips!

Tank Set-Up

A 10-gallon tank can accommodate a single adult axolotl, however, it’s best to keep them in a 15 or 20-gallon tank as they can grow up to 9 inches in length (fantaxies.com has more information).

Fill the tank to the depth of your choice and place a lid at the top (axolotls are known to jump out of their tanks).

It’s also important that you get the right filter. Ideally, you want to use an external canister filter as they’re much more efficient at removing waste. Just make sure to turn down the water flow as they can become stressed if the water current is too strong.

Diet 

Axolotls can eat just about anything that can fit inside their mouths and they swallow their food whole, just like other salamanders. Some good staples include night crawlers, bloodworms, and black worms.

Pellets are another option. Ideally, you want to choose one that’s high in protein and low in fat (e.g. Hikari Sinking Pellets).

Avoid feeding live fish as they’re vulnerable to many parasites and fish diseases.

And be careful not to overfeed them; that can cause various digestive problems, including impaction, which can potentially lead to death.

Temperature and Lighting 

Axolotls don’t require much when it comes to lighting. If anything, they’re sensitive to bright lights as they’re adapted to low-light conditions.

For this reason, it’s best to provide them with a few hiding spots. For example, you can place PVC pipes or planting pots into the tank.

Also, make sure that the temperature of the water is between 60 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can tolerate temperatures up to the low 70s, anything higher can lead to heat stress, loss of appetite, and even death.

Tip: Consider using an aquarium chiller during the summer if the temperature is an issue.

Knowing How to Care For Axolotl Fish

And there you have it—a guide on how to care for axolotl fish. As you can see, they have specific requirements when it comes to their living environment. As long as you care for them properly, however, they’ll live a long and happy life.

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