This article will tell you how to care for an axolotl. An axolotl is a an aquatic salamander related to tiger salamanders; in a tank environment, they will never transform into the adult form, but will remain larvae. They make very easy and enjoyable pets. They have a lifespan of 10-15 years in aquariums, which any potential owner should be aware of before they make a long-term investment in the care of one of these creatures.
Step 1
Provide suitable housing. The tank should be ten to fifteen inches in length, at least a 10 gallon aquarium - a larger size may be needed as the axolotl grows larger. A mesh top is best to prevent escape. The tank should be glass or acrylic. At least one hiding place (tunnel, crevice, cave, etc) must be provided as they need to have shelter and prefer dark places.
Step 2
Provide a filter. Axolotls need a filter. If the filter has tube, hide it behind something so it does not suck their gills off if they get near it, or keep the filter on a lower power.
Step 3
Perform weekly water changes. Change 1/4 of the water in the axolotl's tank weekly with new water to keep the tank clean.
Step 4
Give your axolotl substrate. Pebbles are bad because they could put them in their mouth and possibly swallow them if small enough. And this could lead to death. If you get pebbles, get some that are larger than an inch around.
Step 5
Feed your axolotl once a day. If it is an adult, feed it every other day. Axolotls can eat crickets, worms, meal worms, chicken liver, and if you are not comfortable with any of these, you can feed them food obtainable from the pet store, such as brine shrimp, small "feeder" fish, and special fish pellets (called "salmon" or "trout" pellets). Remember to keep their diet varied. If there is any left over food, clean it up immediately with a net.
Step 6
Keep Well Fed. If housed in pairs or more they are likely to eat limbs off other Axolotl if not well fed.
Tips
- Do not handle unless you have to.
- Handle gently but firmly.
Warnings
- Axolotls will not tolerate any tankmates besides other axolotls.
- As previously mentioned, care must be taken to not add small stones or gravel in the tank, as axolotl are known to eat rocks that are small enough to fit in their mouths.
- Being amphibious, axolotls are very sensitive to water quality. A water conditioner can be used on tap water to create water that is clean enough for them; mere distilled water won't be "pure" enough.
Things You'll Need
- Tank
- Pebbles larger than an inch around
- Filter
- Food
- Clean water (use a water conditioner)
