Axolotls are fascinating creatures who can still be found in their natural habitat in Mexico. They’re unique because they don’t need to spend their whole lives underwater they can breathe air just like frogs and salamanders do, and they’ve made it through the ages without changing into something else entirely.
Axolotls have been around for about 100 million years, which is why they’re one of the few survivors from a time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Keeping axolotls together requires careful consideration of their individual needs and behavior. |
| Axolotls can be kept alone or with compatible tank mates, but proper research and monitoring are necessary. |
| Axolotls may exhibit territorial behavior, which can lead to aggression if tank space and resources are limited. |
| Providing ample space, hiding spots, and appropriate tank conditions can help reduce stress and promote peaceful coexistence. |
| Regular observation and monitoring of axolotls’ behavior and health are crucial when keeping them together. |
Can Axolotls Be Kept Together In The Same Tank?
When it comes to axolotls, it’s best to keep them as solitary animals. They are territorial and will fight each other if kept together.
However, if you have a group of axolotls that are juvenile and haven’t reached sexual maturity yet (about 3 months old), then they can be kept in groups of two or three without any problems. You just need to make sure that there is enough space in your tank for each individual axolotl so they don’t feel crowded or stressed out by their tank mates.
While some axolotl enthusiasts prefer to keep them together, it’s important to consider their individual needs and behavior. Our article on keeping axolotls alone shares valuable insights from experienced owners, helping you make an informed decision.
How Many Axolotls Can Be Kept In One Tank?
If you’re interested in keeping multiple axolotls together, there are a few things to keep in mind. As a general rule of thumb, one axolotl per 10 gallons of water is a good rule to follow. But this is only applicable when you’re talking about two or more adult axolotls and not juveniles juveniles can be kept together as long as they all fit comfortably in the tank.
In terms of size, “10 gallons” refers to both the length and width of your tank you’ll want to make sure that your tank has at least 20 inches in length and 12 inches in width to accommodate two adult specimens comfortably.
If you want three or more adult specimens, then it’s best when they each get their own tank (even if they’re smaller than 10 gallons).
Do I Need A Filter For My Axolotl Tank?
Axolotls can be kept without the use of filters, but if you do choose to use one, it should be a sponge filter. A sponge filter is an ideal choice because it provides both mechanical filtration (to remove solid waste from the water) as well as biological filtration (to break down ammonia and nitrite). This is what’s known as “biological filtration”.
While many people are under the impression that axolotls require high levels of oxygen to survive, this isn’t true! Axolotls are extremely hardy fish and can thrive in low-oxygen environments due to their ability to breathe atmospheric air through their skin or gills.
| Filter Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Internal Filters | Compact and versatile filters that are placed inside the tank. They provide mechanical and biological filtration. |
| Canister Filters | Powerful filters that sit outside the tank and provide excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. They offer high water flow rates and customizable media options. |
| Sponge Filters | Gentle filters that use a sponge to trap debris and provide biological filtration. They are suitable for smaller tanks and help maintain water quality. |
| Hang-On-Back (HOB) Filters | Easy-to-install filters that hang on the back of the tank. They offer mechanical and biological filtration and are suitable for tanks with limited space. |
| Wet/Dry Filters | Efficient filters that combine mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. They provide high oxygenation and are ideal for larger tanks. |
How Significant Should The Water Change Be Each Week?
The amount of water you should change each week will depend on a variety of factors, including how many axolotls are in the tank and how big your tank is.
In general, if you have just one or two axolotls and a smaller tank (like a 10 gallon), then your weekly water change should be somewhere around 30% of the total volume. If you have a larger tank and more than two axolotls, then your weekly water changes should be closer to 50%.
It’s also important to realize that as animals grow in size and grow older, they produce more waste than when they were younger.
So if you’re noticing that there are more algae blooms occurring in your axolotl’s tank or if it seems like there is more slime coating the bottom of his habitat after cleaning then this could be an indication that he may need more frequent water changes!
Looking to create a harmonious aquatic community? Discover the compatibility of axolotls with other fish species in our detailed guide. Learn about the factors to consider and potential challenges when keeping axolotls with other fish for a thriving and balanced aquarium.
How Many Axolotls Can I Keep Together?
When it comes to keeping axolotls, the number of axolotls you can keep in one tank depends on the size of your tank. A 20 gallon tank should only have two axolotls, while a 40-55 gallon tank can hold up to 4. If you are interested in breeding them, there are some things to consider before adding more than one male into a tank.
What Is The Minimum Tank Size For Axolotls?
The minimum tank size for axolotls is 20 gallons, but they can be kept in a smaller tank as long as they have plenty of space to swim around. In general, axolotls are very active creatures, so they will not thrive unless they have enough room to move around.
If you must keep your axolotl in a smaller space than recommended by the experts at Axolotl Site (see above), then make sure that it’s got plenty of hiding places and other ways for it to get out of the way when it wants some privacy.
What Are The Best Tank Mates For Axolotls?
When you’re choosing tank mates for your axolotl, be sure that the tank is large enough. One of the most common mistakes made by new owners is keeping too many animals in a small tank.
This will lead to overcrowding and stress for all of your pets. If you want to keep other fish or amphibians with your axolotl, it’s best to have at least a 40 gallon tank (30 x 18 x 15 inches) available. If you plan on keeping reptiles such as snakes or lizards, the minimum size would be 60 gallons (48 x 24 x 18 inches).
| Tank Mate | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Corydoras Catfish | Peaceful and compatible with axolotls. They occupy the bottom level of the tank. |
| Mystery Snails | Safe tank mates that help clean up algae and waste. They are peaceful and have a hard shell to avoid injury. |
| White Cloud Mountain Minnows | Active and peaceful fish that can coexist with axolotls. They prefer cooler water temperatures. |
| Bristlenose Plecos | Peaceful bottom-dwelling fish that help keep the tank clean. They have a unique appearance with their bristle-like growths. |
| Ghost Shrimp | Non-aggressive and suitable tank mates for axolotls. They provide additional cleaning and entertainment. |
Can I Keep Live Plants With My Axolotl?
You can keep live plants with your axolotl, but they should be kept out of its reach.
Live plants are beneficial to the water quality and provide hiding places for your axolotl. They can also be used to help keep the tank clean because they will absorb excess ammonia that is produced by your axolotl.
The downside is that live plants will eventually die, so you’ll need to replace them periodically when this happens.
Understanding the social nature of axolotls is crucial for their well-being. In our article, we delve into the topic of axolotls and loneliness, sharing personal experiences that shed light on the importance of companionship. Discover how to address this concern and provide a fulfilling environment for your axolotl’s social needs. Check out our insights on axolotls getting lonely.
What Is The Ideal Water Temperature For Axolotls?
The ideal temperature range for an axolotl is between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius (60 to 64 Fahrenheit).
The axolotl can withstand a wide range of temperatures but the higher the temperature, the less time it can spend out of water. As a general rule, if you want your axolotl to be active you should keep your tank as cool as possible while still maintaining suitable levels of oxygenation.
How Often Should I Change The Water In My Axolotl’s Tank?
How often you should change the water depends on how many axolotls you have in your tank. If it’s a single axolotl, you should replace 25-50% of the water each week (so if your tank is 100 gallons, replace between 25 and 50 gallons). If it’s two or more axolotls, then replace half of the tank’s volume every two weeks.
What Kind Of Substrate Should I Use In My Axolotl Tank?
There are many different types of substrate that can be used in an axolotl tank. Some common substrates include:
- Sand or gravel is a good substrate for axolotls because it gives them something to burrow into, which makes them feel safer. Be sure not to use play sand as it will clog up the filter!
- Moss is another great way to provide hiding places for your pet axolotls, but be sure that it doesn’t grow too large or else the roots could damage their delicate skin on their bellies.
| Substrate Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Bare Bottom | No substrate used, which makes cleaning easier and prevents the risk of impaction. |
| Fine Sand | Smooth and soft sand substrate that mimics the natural habitat of axolotls. It allows for natural burrowing behavior. |
| Smooth Gravel | Rounded gravel with no sharp edges, providing a decorative option while maintaining ease of cleaning. |
| Aquatic Soil | Nutrient-rich soil designed for planted aquariums. It supports the growth of live plants and creates a natural environment. |
| Rubberized Cork Tiles | Soft and textured tiles that offer a natural look and provide a comfortable surface for axolotls to rest on. |
Are Axolotls Aggressive?
Axolotls are not aggressive fish, unlike other types of salamanders. They are generally peaceful and not territorial at all. They do not need to be kept in groups because they are a solitary species.
If you want to keep more than one in the same tank, it’s fine because they rarely fight with each other unless there is competition over food or territory. It’s best if you have one male and one female though so that they don’t breed!
Creating a suitable habitat for your axolotl is essential for their health and happiness. Our comprehensive guide provides recommendations and tips on setting up an ideal tank environment. From substrate choices to suitable hiding spots, explore our suggestions on what to put in an axolotl’s tank for a thriving and comfortable aquatic home.
Do Axolotls Bite?
Axolotls are not aggressive, and they will not bite you or your other pets. In fact, they’re quite easygoing in terms of temperament you can keep them with similar-sized, non-aggressive fish and amphibians without any problems.
They do have teeth that protrude from their mouths when they open them (they use these teeth to catch food), so if you’re worried about being bitten by your axolotl while feeding it or cleaning its tank, simply make sure the animal is secure before reaching into the water.
Do Axolotls Eat Their Tank Mates?
As you may know, axolotls are not carnivorous. While they eat small invertebrates like worms, they aren’t known to be aggressive toward other animals.
So in most cases, you can keep different kinds of fish and amphibians together without any problems.
However, some people find that their axolotls eat their tank mates if this happens to you and your animal has never had a meal before (which is rare) then it could be because its belly is full of digestive enzymes that aid in digestion and break down food particles in order to absorb nutrients from them.
These enzymes need to be released into the water so that they can work properly; otherwise they will end up killing off whatever else is living inside your aquarium!
You can avoid this by feeding your axolotl just one or two times per week more often than that might mean giving them too many nutrients at once which could lead them being unable to absorb enough food for themselves alone.”
Can I Keep A Fish With My Axolotl?
As mentioned earlier, axolotls are carnivores and require a high-protein diet. A fish would likely not be able to provide the energy that an axolotl needs for its growth.
Additionally, since fish are generally more delicate than axolotls, an aggressive or territorial axolotl could easily devour its smaller tank mate. In fact, it’s not uncommon to hear of people who have witnessed their fish disappearing overnight after putting them in with their axolotl!
If you feel that you still want your own pet fish despite these warnings and concerns, there are some options available:
Zebra Danios: These small freshwater tropical fish are easygoing enough so as not to bother your nervous amphibian friend (or vice versa). They also have attractive patterns on their bodies which make them fun additions to any aquarium setup!
Corydoras Catfish: These bottom-dwelling catfish live peacefully in groups; however they do tend to grow quite large over time which means that if you decide later on that you want one as your companion creature then perhaps another choice might be better suited instead such as those listed above instead of this particular species type because of how many other species exist out there too where some may suit
Proper care is crucial to ensure the well-being of your axolotl companion. Our comprehensive care guide covers essential aspects such as tank setup, feeding, water conditions, and more. Explore our expert advice on how to care for your axolotl, and provide your aquatic friend with the best possible care.
Can I Keep Another Amphibian With My Axolotl?
If you want to keep another amphibian, there is a trick to keeping several frogs or salamanders together. You must get a tank that is at least 5 times (or more) the size of your axolotl’s current home.
If you want to keep two axolotls together in their own tank, then the minimum tank size should be 20 gallons per axolotl. So a 20-gallon aquarium would only hold one adult axolotl, but it could potentially house two juvenile ones since they’re much smaller and don’t require as much space for swimming around and exploring new environments.
This rule also applies when adding any aquatic animal into an existing habitat with other animals if your aquarium doesn’t have enough space for all of them together without overcrowding everyone then something will eventually suffer due to lack of oxygen or food supply!
Can Axolotls Be Kept In Pairs?
Axolotls can be kept in pairs or groups, and even in large colonies. You may have heard of “axolotl farms” where hundreds or even thousands of these creatures are kept together in captivity.
In fact, it is possible to keep axolotls with other species of axolotl as well some aquarists have had success keeping a leucistic Mexican fire-belly (Ambystoma mexicanum) and an albino (Ambystoma tigrinum) together in the same tank!
If you have more than one species of axolotl available for your aquarium, be sure that they are compatible with each other before attempting this type of setup.
How Many Axolotls Can Be Kept In A Tank?
The answer is that you can keep as many as you want! Axolotls are not territorial animals and they won’t fight with each other unless they’re trying to mate. They also tend to stay at the bottom of your tank where there’s less competition for food sources, so there’s no need for them to defend their territory from each other.
You should only keep one male with multiple females though if you try pairing together two males or more than one male with a female, it may cause stress and could lead to health issues down the road (and possibly even death).
What Size Tank Should I Get For My Axolotl?
It’s important to note that axolotls can be kept in pairs, so it’s not necessary to buy a tank that’s larger than what you need just because you have two of them. A 15-20 gallon tank is good for one axolotl; a 40 gallon tank for two; 60 gallons for three; and 80 gallons for four.
If you’re thinking about getting more than one, it may be better to get a larger tank from the start rather than adding another occupant later on.
That way, your new addition will have plenty of space and won’t feel crowded or stressed out by being confined with other tanks inside yours (and vice versa).
Conclusion
Keep in mind that you should only keep one male and one female axolotl together if you want them to breed. When it comes to axolotls, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you are unsure if two species will get along well together, then don’t put them together!
A tank with a divider can be helpful here so that you can keep both sexes separated until they are ready for breeding.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources for further reading on axolotls and related topics:
Axolotl Tank Mates – Hepper: Discover compatible tank mates for your axolotl and learn how to create a harmonious aquatic environment.
Axolotl Care Guide – Pet Circle: A comprehensive guide to axolotl care, covering topics such as tank setup, feeding, and general husbandry tips.
Axolotl Tank Mates – Pets From Afar: Find out which species can coexist peacefully with axolotls in a shared aquarium, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for your aquatic pets.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about axolotls:
Can axolotls live together in the same tank?
Axolotls can be kept together in the same tank, but it’s important to consider their compatibility, size, and territorial behavior to prevent aggression and stress.
What do axolotls eat?
Axolotls are carnivorous and primarily feed on live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. It’s essential to provide a varied and balanced diet for their nutritional needs.
Do axolotls require a heater in their tank?
Axolotls are cold-water species and generally thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 68°F (15°C and 20°C). They do not require a heater unless the room temperature falls below their preferred range.
Can axolotls regrow their limbs?
Yes, axolotls are known for their remarkable regenerative abilities. They can regrow lost limbs, including limbs that are partially amputated, given the appropriate conditions and care.
How big do axolotls grow?
Axolotls can grow to an average length of 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm) when fully mature. However, some individuals may reach larger sizes, with proper nutrition and suitable tank conditions.
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.