Axolotls are a species of salamander that is native to Mexico. Despite their name, axolotls aren’t lizards or even amphibians. They’re more closely related to newts and salamanders.
They’re also unique among amphibians because they never metamorphose into adult form! Axolotls will never grow up and lose their gills in favor of lungs as frogs do; instead, they stay juvenile throughout their entire lives.
While the idea of keeping a creature in its larval stage might sound strange or even disturbing at first glance, you’ll soon see that these unusual creatures have become some of the most popular pets in recent years!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Axolotls can make good pets for 10-year-olds. |
| They are low-maintenance and have fascinating characteristics. |
| Axolotls are unique aquatic creatures with a charming appearance. |
| Proper care and supervision are important for children’s involvement. |
| Axolotls can provide an educational and interactive pet experience. |
What Are Axolotls?
Axolotls are aquatic salamanders that can regenerate their limbs. They’re native to the lakes of Mexico and are known as Mexican walking fish. They were nearly wiped out in the wild because of pollution, but they’ve since been bred in captivity and are now considered common pets.
The axolotl belongs to a group of animals called salamanders, which all have four legs and lungs rather than gills or an oxygenated blood system with red blood cells and hemoglobin like other fish.
Most salamanders have external gills that look like flaps on either side of their heads and use them for breathing underwater until they grow arms or legs at about three months old;
Some species also have lungs for above-water activity once this happens as well as some species are completely land-dwelling (a few are even capable swimmers).
Salamanders vary widely in size some may only grow up to 3 inches long while others could reach over 7 feet long! There are many different types:
American mole salamander; giant Asian newt; hellbender; Pacific giant salamander; Chinese giant salamander; African clawed frog (the largest); African dwarf frog (the smallest).
When considering axolotls as pets, it’s important to understand why they make good companions. Our article on the benefits of axolotls as pets provides valuable insights into their low-maintenance care, fascinating characteristics, and unique charm. Discover why axolotls can be a perfect addition to your family!
Are Axolotls Hard To Care For?
Axolotls are not difficult to care for. They don’t require a lot of special equipment or food, and they don’t need lots of space.
They can be easy to feed because they eat worms and small fish, but if you’re planning on feeding them live foods like crickets or earthworms regularly, you may find yourself with a lot of extra work on your hands (or in your tank).
Axolotls do have the ability to heal injuries quickly both internal and external ones so you must take proper care when handling your pet axolotl.
But even if an injury does occur while you’re handling him/her/it, it shouldn’t cause anything more than some discomfort at worst.
Axolotls aren’t particularly fragile creatures: they have thick protective skin that makes them hardy enough for kids’ tank mates without being too strong-willed themselves!
| Difficulty Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Easy | Axolotls are low-maintenance pets, requiring basic care and minimal expertise. They are suitable for beginners and those looking for a hassle-free pet ownership experience. |
| Moderate | Axolotls have specific care requirements, including water quality monitoring, temperature regulation, and proper feeding. Moderate experience and knowledge are recommended to ensure their well-being. |
| Challenging | Axolotls require advanced care and expertise due to their sensitive nature. Maintaining optimal water conditions, addressing potential health issues, and providing a suitable environment can be more demanding. |
What Supplies Do I Need To Get My Axolotl Started?
If you are thinking about getting an axolotl, here is a list of supplies that you will need to get started:
A tank. Axolotls are large salamanders that can grow up to 24 inches in length, so you need to have a large tank for them. A 20-gallon tank that has room for your axolotl to swim and climb will be perfect for him/her.
Tank cover or lid: The aquarium needs a cover because axolotls are jumpers and could easily escape their environment if not properly covered.
They can also jump out of the water onto dry land and potentially escape into another room or area where they may not be safe or able to survive very long without proper care.[1]
Tank heater: It should reach 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 72 degrees Fahrenheit during the night (or somewhere between those temperatures).
Aquarium filter(s): You need at least one filter running inside the tank at all times so that it does not become too polluted with ammonia from waste materials laying around inside there.
[2] You might want multiple filters on hand depending upon how many fish/creatures live within this habitat; however, keep in mind that over-filtration could lead to problems such as pH spikes which could result in stress-related deaths among other things![3]
While axolotls can be intriguing creatures, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to bring them home. Learn more about the potential challenges and reasons why some people believe axolotls should not be pets. Understanding both perspectives will help you make an informed decision about axolotl ownership.
How Much Does An Axolotl Cost?
The cost of an axolotl depends on the size and the breed. The average cost is between $10-20 per axolotl, but it can range from $60 to over $100 for certain breeds with rare colors.
The tank, filter and any accessories that you need to set up your tank will run you between $100 and $300 depending on what type of setup you want.
You may also need a heater for your tank if it’s kept outside in colder climates or if you live in an area where temperatures are already cool during most of the year (around 68 degrees Fahrenheit).
Food will likely be one of your biggest expenses since axolotls eat small insects such as bloodworms constantly throughout their lifespan this can cost anywhere between $10-$50 per month depending on how many insects they eat at once!
| Axolotl Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Wild-Type | $30 – $50 |
| Leucistic | $40 – $60 |
| Albino | $50 – $70 |
| Golden Albino | $60 – $80 |
| Axanthic | $70 – $90 |
| Melanoid | $80 – $100 |
| GFP/Glowing | $100 – $150 |
| Rare Morphs | Varies |
How Big Does An Axolotl Get?
Axolotls can get pretty big. They’re large salamanders, growing to be between 6 and 8 inches long. Juveniles are more colorful than adults, but they still have a striking appearance and may even be mistaken for catfish. They can live up to 20 years in captivity, so make sure you’re ready to commit!
Axolotls are nocturnal animals that prefer to sleep during the day they have been known to hibernate in their aquariums when temperatures drop too low outside (under 10°C).
While you might be tempted to wake your axis up from his slumber every morning because he looks super cute sleeping next to you at night…don’t do it! He needs his rest!
Is My Tank Big Enough For My Axolotl?
Your axolotl’s tank size depends on the size of your axolotl. An adult axolotl might need a larger tank than a younger one, and some species live longer than others.
For example, you’ll probably want to get a 20-gallon aquarium for small species that only grow to about six inches long (like Pueblan Onychodactylus), but if you have an aquatic salamander that gets much bigger than that (such as Ambystoma mexicanum or Ambystoma opacum).
Then choose something larger at least a 55-gallon tank! Be sure to take into account your pet’s size when buying their home; they need to be able to move around freely and not feel cramped inside their habitat.
Axolotls play a crucial role in their natural environment, contributing to the delicate balance of ecosystems. Dive deeper into the topic of their ecological significance by exploring our comprehensive article on why axolotls are important to the ecosystem. Discover how these unique creatures contribute to biodiversity and the conservation efforts dedicated to their preservation.
How Often Should I Feed My Axolotl?
You should feed your axolotl once or twice a week. If you’re feeding live food, it’s recommended that you feed no more than 20% of the axolotls’ body weight per day. So for example, if your axolotl weighs 4 grams (g), then you should only give it 1 g of food at a time.
Axolotls like to eat live foods such as worms, snails, and crustaceans. You can purchase these from pet stores or online; however, if you cannot find any locally then there are plenty available online and through Amazon Prime deliveries!
To provide the best care for axolotls, it’s vital to understand their natural habitat and replicate it as closely as possible. Our article on where axolotls live naturally unveils the fascinating details about their native environment, including water temperature, habitat structure, and dietary considerations. Enhance your knowledge to create a suitable home for your axolotl friend
How Many Axolotls Can I Keep In A 20 Gallon Tank?
When it comes to housing axolotls, there are two key things you need to consider: the amount of space your new pets will have and their social needs.
Axolotls are a species that should be kept in groups. The ideal number is 1 adult axolotl per 20-gallon tank (though I recommend having at least 2 so that they can keep each other company).
But if you’re only going to be able to provide enough space for one axolotl, and you don’t have any experience with keeping amphibians before, then try leaving them alone for now. You could always build up your confidence by starting with fish or reptiles first!
Male and female axolotl tanks should also be separated but this goes without saying because they can breed readily under aquarium conditions!
While most pet shops won’t take responsibility for selling these animals unless you promise not to breed them (for fear of overpopulation), some people do anyway because reproduction isn’t hard at all
| Axolotl Size | Maximum Quantity |
|---|---|
| Juvenile (2-4 inches) | 1 |
| Sub-Adult (4-6 inches) | 1 |
| Adult (6+ inches) | 1 |
| Juvenile Pair (2-4 inches) | 2 |
| Sub-Adult Pair (4-6 inches) | 2 |
| Adult Pair (6+ inches) | 2 |
Axolotls Are Easy To Care For, Though They Can Be Pricey
Axolotls are easy to care for, though they can be pricey. Axolotls are not a good pet for children under 10 years old, as the axolotl’s habitat temperature and water quality must be carefully monitored to ensure that the axolotl is healthy.
Additionally, the tank needs to be at least 20 gallons in size so that it has room to swim around and explore its environment.
If you’re interested in learning more about how you can keep your axolotl happy and healthy while also protecting its environment from harm, check out our guide on How To Take Care Of An Axolotl!
While axolotls are known for their captivating appearance, have you ever wondered about the colors of their skin and what they signify? Discover the mesmerizing world of axolotl pigmentation in our article on the color of axolotl skin explained. Unravel the mysteries behind their vibrant hues and gain a deeper appreciation for these enchanting aquatic creatures.
Conclusion
Axolotls are great pets for kids. They’re easy to care for, and they don’t require a lot of work or money. As long as you have enough space in your tank, and can feed them regularly, you should be good to go!
Further Reading
Are Axolotls Beginner-Friendly?: Discover whether axolotls are suitable for beginners and learn about the factors to consider when choosing them as pets.
Best Pets for Kids: Explore a comprehensive guide that highlights various pet options suitable for kids, helping you make an informed decision based on your child’s age and interests.
Axolotl as a Pet: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Axolotl: Delve into the ultimate guide that provides in-depth information on axolotl care, including tank setup, feeding habits, and health considerations.
Now, here’s the FAQs section:
FAQs
Can axolotls live outside water?
No, axolotls are fully aquatic creatures and cannot survive on land. They require a water-based environment to thrive.
What do axolotls eat?
Axolotls primarily feed on small aquatic organisms such as worms, insects, and small fish. It’s important to provide a varied and nutritious diet for their overall well-being.
How big do axolotls grow?
Axolotls can grow up to 10-12 inches in length, although some individuals may reach even larger sizes. Proper nutrition, tank conditions, and genetics influence their growth rate.
Do axolotls need a special type of tank?
Yes, axolotls require a specific type of tank setup. They need a tank with enough water volume, proper filtration, and hiding spots. It’s crucial to replicate their natural habitat to ensure their well-being.
Can axolotls regrow their limbs?
Yes, one of the fascinating abilities of axolotls is their capability to regrow lost body parts, including limbs, spinal cord, and even parts of their heart and brain. This regenerative ability sets them apart from many other animals.
I am Dr Hellen James a veterinarian, pet lover, and writer. I have many years of experience caring for pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and fish (and even axolotls!). I love spending time with the animals in my life, especially when they are sick or need love.