Caring for your Axolotl

The axolotl can be an unusual and exotic alternative to fish in an aquarium. Despite what its other name, Mexican walking fish suggests it is actually an amphibian. They can grow up to 35cm long and come in a variety of colours.

Housing: A 2ft (60cm) tank is the minimum recommended size for a full grown axolotl but they can be kept in smaller tanks when young. A filter is a must in order to keep the water clean and oxygenated, look for one that isn’t too fast flowing, these amphibians like a slow current. They are coldwater animals so a heater is not necessary, a temperature of 14o-20o is ideal. Axolotls kept in temperatures higher than 24o can become stressed and are more prone to disease. Decorating your tank is essential to keep your Mexican walking fish happy and healthy; they need a place to hide and feel secure. Driftwood or a large ornament works well. If using gravel in your aquarium make sure it is large enough to not be swallowed, ingesting small gravel or sand can be very harmful.

Feeding: A varied diet is the key to keeping a healthy axolotl. Sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp and mealworms are all fine to feed. Most axolotls need to be hand fed, this can be done with a set of small tongs or tweezers or if you’re brave; fingers are fine. Axolotls do have teeth but they are very small, and used for gripping rather than chewing or biting, they are not strong enough to pierce skin so it will not be painful if you are accidentally bitten.
When young, they will need to be fed everyday, but every second day is fine for adult walking fish.

Tank Mates: The only creature you can keep with an axolotl is another axolotl!
Mexican walking fish are carnivores and will eat any fish that is small enough to fit in its mouth. Fish that are larger will find the axolotls gills irresistible and will try to eat them. Young axolotls can tend to be cannibalistic, so keep them separated until they’re at least 15cm long. Older axolotls usually get along quite well provided that they have enough space.

Interesting Facts: Axolotls are permanently in the larval stage of their development (similar to when a tadpole turns into a frog), and are one of the rare group of amphibians who can breed in such a stage.
They can regenerate lost limbs. So don’t worry if your walking fish loses a leg, it will grow back!
It is not unusual for axolotls to live for 10 or 15 years