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Freshwater Axolotl

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  1. Assorted Axolotl 12cm
    Assorted Axolotl 12cm Ambystoma Mexicanum
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  2. Assorted Walking Fish - Axolotl 15cm
    Assorted Walking Fish - Axolotl 15cm Ambystoma Mexicanum
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    Assorted Axolotl 7cm Ambystoma Mexicanum
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  4. Black Axolotl 15cm
    Black Axolotl 15cm Ambystoma mexicanum
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    Golden Axolotl 15cm Ambystoma mexicanum
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    Olive Axolotl 15cm Ambystoma mexicanum
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  7. White Axolotl 15cm
    White Axolotl 15cm Ambystoma mexicanum
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  8. Assorted Walking Fish - Axolotl (5-7cm)
    Assorted Walking Fish - Axolotl (5-7cm) Ambystoma mexicanum
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FAQs

Freshwater Axolotl

Unique marvels - Add some variety to your aquarist hobby with an Axolotl.

Walking fish, or axolotls, are actually not fish at all but a unique species of salamander. Most salamanders lose their iconic frill-like gills as adults - but axolotls keep them for life.

Axolotls retain their external gills throughout their lifetime, giving them their iconic feathery appearance. Selective breeding has led to an incredible range of colour forms, including albino, leucistic, wild type and melanoid. Axolotls can reach around 20 cm (9') and may live up to 20 years, though 10 years is more typical.

Axolotl Care

Axolotls aren't the lowest-maintenance aquatic pet, but caring for them is straightforward when you follow a few key rules. Despite their impressive regenerative abilities, they are not immune to bacterial infections - meaning clean water is essential. Colours vary between albino, leucistic (white with dark eyes), wild type (mottled dark grey) and melanoid (deep grey with minimal iridescence).

Axolotl Natural Habitat

Axolotls are naturally found only in Lake Xochimilco and previously Lake Chalco in Mexico City. Due to habitat loss and urban expansion, they are now critically endangered in the wild. Today, almost all axolotls exist only through responsible captive breeding programs.

Axolotl Behavior/Compatibility for Axolotl

Axolotls are calm, solitary-friendly animals that can be kept together as long as the tank is spacious. However, they are opportunistic carnivores and will attempt to eat anything that fits in their mouth. Their delicate external gills make them incompatible with almost all fish. Axolotls should not be kept with warm-water species, bottom-feeders, or fin-nipping fish. Avoid mixing juveniles with adults, and separate individuals that show aggression.

Axolotl Tank Set-up Tips

  • Tank

    Axolotls grow large and produce significant waste, making tank size extremely important. A 136 litre (30 gallon) tank is ideal for one axolotl, with a larger tank required for multiple axolotls. Overcrowding increases stress and biting, so two axolotls per tank is ideal.

    Recommended Max Axolotl Count Tank Volume
    1 Axolotl 136 litres (30 gallons)
    2 Axolotls 181 litres (40 gallons)
    3 Axolotls 227 litres (50 gallons)
    4 Axolotls 272 litres (60 gallons)

  • Base

    Gravel is risky, as axolotls may swallow it. For safety, choose a sand substrate, large smooth stones, or no substrate at all to make waste cleanup easier.

  • Foliage

    Axolotls often uproot delicate aquarium plants. Floating or hardy plants work best, such as Anubias. Secure plastic plants can also be used. Provide hiding spaces with driftwood, caves, and decorations.

  • Water

    Axolotls require cool water between 16-20°C (60.8-68°F), and must never exceed 24°C (75°F). Keep their aquarium out of sunlight and consider insulation or a water cooler if your climate is warm.

    Your pH should be 5.5-7.8 with 5-15 dGH hardness. Use a testing kit to monitor conditions. Filtration must be strong but gentle, as they dislike fast currents.

    Regularly clean the substrate and treat tap water with appropriate water conditioners to remove chlorine and fluoride.

Feeding and Care

Axolotls are carnivores and thrive on live foods. Juveniles enjoy bloodworms, daphnia and brine shrimp, while adults thrive on earthworms and quality sinking pellets. Explore our fish food selection for suitable options.

Great reasons to keep Axolotl in your freshwater aquarium

  • Axolotls make unique and fascinating companions.
  • They are unlike any other aquatic pet in the hobby.
  • Owning one helps preserve a critically endangered species, as all our axolotls are captive bred.

Discover why axolotls are one of the world's most beloved exotic pets. Browse our varieties of online live fishesbelow and have your new companion delivered directly to your door!

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How long do Axolotls live?

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, typically live between 10 to 15 years, though some individuals may live up to 20 years with proper care. Their lifespan depends on factors like water quality, diet, and overall health. Providing a stable, clean environment with a balanced diet and regular care will help them live a long, healthy life.

What do Axolotls eat?

Axolotls are carnivores and primarily eat live or frozen foods. They can be fed earthworms, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small fish. Juvenile axolotls can also eat specially formulated axolotl pellets designed for carnivorous amphibians. It's important to feed them small amounts that they can eat in one sitting to prevent food from decomposing in the tank, which could affect water quality.

How big do Axolotls get?

Axolotls typically grow to around 25 to 30 cm in length when fully grown, with some individuals reaching up to 40 cm. Their size makes them well-suited to medium to large aquariums, where they have enough space to move and explore.

Do Axolotls need a heater?

Axolotls prefer cooler water temperatures and should be kept in water between 16°C and 20°C. While they don't need a heater, water temperatures should be monitored carefully, as temperatures above 22°C can stress them and make them more susceptible to disease. In warmer climates, it may be necessary to use a cooling system or keep the aquarium in a cool room.

How to set up a tank for Axolotls

Axolotls require a spacious tank with clean, well-oxygenated water. A minimum tank size of 80 L is recommended for one axolotl, with larger tanks being better for multiple axolotls. Use a gentle filter to keep the water clean, but avoid strong currents, as axolotls prefer calm waters. They thrive in a substrate of fine sand or smooth gravel, and it's important to avoid sharp objects that could damage their delicate skin. Provide hiding spots, such as caves or plants, to help them feel secure.

Can Axolotls live with other fish?

Axolotls are solitary animals and should be kept with other non-aggressive species if kept in a community tank. However, due to their slow-moving nature and delicate skin, they should not be kept with fast, aggressive fish that might nip at them. Avoid species that could potentially harm the axolotl, such as fish with sharp fins or those that may attempt to eat them. Small, peaceful species like shrimp or snails can be compatible with axolotls if the tank is large enough.

How to differentiate a male Axolotl from a female Axolotl?

The differences between male and female axolotls are subtle but can be observed during breeding seasons. Males typically have a slimmer body and a more pronounced cloaca (the area under the tail where the reproductive organs are located). Females tend to have a wider, rounder body, particularly when they are carrying eggs. During mating, males will display courtship behaviours, such as swimming around the female and releasing sperm packets.

Do Axolotls need a filter?

Yes, Axolotls require a filter to maintain clean water, as they produce a significant amount of waste. A gentle filter is ideal, as strong currents can stress the axolotl. Regular water changes (about 20-30% per week) are also essential to maintain water quality and prevent the build-up of harmful toxins.

Are Axolotls easy to care for?

Axolotls are relatively easy to care for, as long as their specific needs are met. They require clean, cool water and a diet rich in protein. They are also quite hardy and can adapt to a range of environments, although they should not be exposed to temperatures above 20°C. While they are not particularly high-maintenance, it's important to ensure they have enough space to move and access to a suitable substrate and hiding spots.

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