Axolotls are fascinating creatures, but they can’t be kept in isolation. As a prolific species of salamander, axolotls need to interact with other animals to stay healthy.
In this article, we’ll discuss how you can keep an axolotl as well as what types of fish it can safely live in the same tank with.
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Axolotls can coexist with certain fish species in a well-planned and suitable aquatic environment. |
| Introducing axolotls to other fish requires careful observation and monitoring of their interactions. |
| Compatibility between axolotls and other fish depends on factors such as size, temperament, and water conditions. |
| Some suitable tank mates for axolotls include non-aggressive fish species like white cloud mountain minnows and zebra danios. |
| It’s important to avoid fish species that may nip at the axolotls’ external gills or show aggressive behavior. |
| Proper research and understanding of the specific needs and behaviors of both axolotls and potential tank mates are crucial for successful cohabitation. |
| Regular monitoring and providing adequate space and hiding spots can help minimize stress and aggression in the aquarium. |
Do Axolotls Get Along With Other Fish?
When it comes to axolotls and other fish, the answer is simple: no. Axolotls are social creatures that need to be kept in groups of at least five. They are territorial and aggressive, so they should not be kept with other species.
However, axolotls can be kept with other axolotls if you want to keep them in a large aquarium or pond. So if you’re planning on having more than one, go ahead!
When introducing axolotls to each other, it’s essential to understand their compatibility. Read our owner’s experience on axolotls getting along with each other to ensure a harmonious cohabitation.
Are Axolotls Compatible With Goldfish?
You may have seen a picture of an axolotl in an aquarium with goldfish, but it’s not recommended that you keep these two together.
While the goldfish are usually the ones to blame for fish tanks going bad, they’re not to blame in this case.
Axolotls are quite small and timid creatures that wouldn’t last long against a full-grown goldfish if it weren’t for their ability to breathe air outside of water. The problem is that goldfish don’t just eat insects they will also eat other fish!
Axolotls tend to hide when they feel threatened by approaching objects or creatures, so they would be unable to escape from a hungry goldfish without help from humans.
If you want your axolotl safe from predators like this one then make sure its tank is too big for any fish that could cause harm (such as those mentioned above).
This includes anything else larger than your pet even if it seems docile enough!
| Axolotls | Goldfish | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Common Goldfish | Compatible |
| Yes | Comet Goldfish | Compatible |
| Yes | Shubunkin Goldfish | Compatible |
| Yes | Fantail Goldfish | Compatible |
| No | Fancy Goldfish (e.g., Bubble Eye, Oranda) | Incompatible |
| No | Long-bodied Goldfish (e.g., Koi) | Incompatible |
Can Axolotls Live With Guppies?
Guppies are an excellent choice for keeping with axolotls. They have a peaceful disposition and make good tank mates.
Guppies are small fish and don’t need a lot of space, so they will fit into most aquariums. They can be kept in smaller tanks than other types of fish, which makes them ideal for those who prefer not to keep large tanks full of freshwater fish species.
Guppies are an active species that swims around all day long, so they will keep your axolotl active and engaged in its surroundings as well.
If you want your pet axolotl to swim around more often or explore its surroundings more quickly than usual, then adding some guppies into the mix can help motivate them!
Curious about how axolotls interact with fish? Our owner’s experience explores the topic of axolotls killing fish and provides valuable insights for maintaining a peaceful aquatic environment.
Are Axolotls Compatible With Bettas?
Axolotls and Bettas are not compatible. Axolotl is a popular pet animal because of its unique appearance, but it’s important to know that this creature can be aggressive towards other animals that share their tank. Bettas may try to eat the axolotl so keep them separated.
You can also try feeding them separately with feeding times spaced out as much as possible. If you still want to keep your axolotl with your betta, use an aquarium large enough for each species (at least 5 gallons) and always make sure they are fed around the same time.
Be sure your betta doesn’t get stuck between rocks or plants where it could get injured by the axolotl while they are fighting over food!
Do Axolotls Get Along With Neon Tetras?
- Axolotls are generally peaceful, but they will be aggressive with other axolotls.
- Neon tetras are a peaceful species and should not bother your axolotl if you keep them in separate tanks.
- Neon tetras do not grow very large and are typically not eaten by larger fish, including axolotls.
- Neon tetras are easy to care for, so this would be a good choice for beginners who want to keep an aquarium but don’t have much experience doing so.
| Axolotls | Neon Tetras | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Neon Tetras | Compatible |
| No | Neon Tetras | Incompatible |
In this table, the first column represents axolotls, the second column represents neon tetras, and the third column indicates their compatibility with each other. The table provides a concise and data-driven overview of the compatibility between axolotls and neon tetras.
Is It Okay To Keep Axolotls With Gouramis?
If you want your axolotl to live in a tank with other fish, you will have to choose fish that are more docile.
Gouramis are aggressive fish and they may fight with your axolotl. Axolotls do not fight back when they are hurt or threatened so it would be easy for gouramis to scare them off or even kill them in the process of trying to show dominance over their new home.
Wondering if it’s possible to have axolotls and fish in the same tank? Our comprehensive guide on keeping axolotls with fish shares firsthand experiences to help you make an informed decision.
Can You Keep Axolotls And Tetras Together?
While tetras are a great choice for axolotls, there are some things you should consider before putting them together.
- Tetras are schooling fish, so they will be happier in groups of 5 or more. They live well with other small fish, but not as well with larger species.
- The axolotl is a bottom dweller, so you should have at least one other type of fish that can swim above it—this helps keep the water clean and provides oxygen to your aquarium.
- Because tetras are fast swimmers who need room to exercise and explore, they will do best in a tank that’s at least 10 gallons (38 liters). The bigger the tank size, the better!
Can You Keep Axolotls And Mollies Together?
Mollies are a good choice for a tank with axolotls. They’re hardy, can thrive in a variety of environments and are generally peaceful fish.
If you decide to keep mollies along with your axolotls, be sure they’re comfortable with each other before adding them to the same habitat.
Also take note that the molly’s size is comparable to that of an adult axolotl; it’s not uncommon for male mollies to grow up to six inches long!
Can You Keep Axolotls And Catfish Together?
One of the most common questions we receive is whether or not axolotls can be kept with catfish. When it comes to aquarium fish compatibility in general, a lot depends on the size and behavior of both species.
But this isn’t just a “yes” or “no” answer when it comes to axolotls and catfish it’s extremely important for you to do extensive research about each species before deciding on an aquarium setup that works best for everyone involved.
Are you considering keeping multiple axolotls together? Find out the answer from a vet’s perspective in our article on axolotls living together, which provides expert insights into their compatibility.
Is It Okay To Keep Axolotl Alongside Cichlids?
Axolotls are not compatible with other fish, especially Cichlids.
Cichlids are a type of fish that can be aggressive towards other fish, and they will outcompete axolotls for food.
Axolotls are also not good at hiding from predators, so they may not be able to survive in an environment with cichlids.
| Axolotls | Cichlids | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Peaceful Cichlids | Compatible |
| No | Aggressive Cichlids | Incompatible |
| No | Territorial Cichlids | Incompatible |
| No | Large Cichlids | Incompatible |
How Do You Best Keep An Axolotl With Other Fish?
Aquariums are usually the best choice for housing axolotls, as they allow for a more natural environment.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that the tank should have a filter and live plants, as well as some hiding spaces for your axolotl to hide when he wants to be alone.
You can use rocks or artificial plants to create hiding places in a corner of your tank; just make sure that these areas are large enough for your axolotl to fit into comfortably and safely!
If you want an even more natural-looking habitat for your pet axolotl, consider using a shallow pond filled with aquatic plants instead of using an aquarium.
Aquatic plants such as hornwort or java ferns provide shelter and food sources while also helping maintain water quality by removing toxins through their roots
Can Axolotls Be Kept With Fish That Are Too Big?
In short, no. I know you want to get your hands on a cute little axolotl, but it’s not going to happen if you have goldfish in your aquarium.
While they may seem like they could be compatible with other fish, in reality their size and temperament make them incompatible with most other aquatic animals.
With their small size and lack of aggression toward other creatures, it’s easy for people who don’t know about these animals to assume that they can live together peacefully but this is unfortunately not the case!
The only way for an axolotl and a goldfish (or any similarly-sized creature) to live together would be by keeping them in separate habitats: one tank for each animal type.
This means that even though it might seem like fun at first glance, trying out this pairing can lead nowhere good unless both parties agree beforehand that this kind of combination would work best before bringing either creature into your home!
If you’re contemplating housing axolotls with betta fish, it’s important to understand their compatibility. Discover the expert advice on axolotls and betta fish coexistence and ensure a harmonious tank environment for both species.
Listed here are some of the fish that you can keep safely with your axlotl.
You can keep axolotls with other fish if you make sure that the tank is big enough. Axolotls should have plenty of space for swimming and hiding places to feel comfortable, so try to give them at least 10 gallons of water per adult axolotl.
If your tank is smaller than this, it may not be able to support all of the animals in it at once; this means that some will need to be taken out periodically so they’re not overcrowded.
You should also keep in mind that some fish are too big or strong for an axolotl tank: a large catfish or cichlid could potentially harm or even kill your pet!
For this reason, we recommend sticking with more docile species such as zebra danios and guppies while keeping any other aquatic friends out of sight at first until they get used to each other’s presence (if necessary).
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about getting an axolotl, then you might also want to consider other fish that can be kept with them. There are plenty of options available and choosing the right ones will ensure that your pet lives a happy and healthy life.
Further Reading
Axolotls Tank Mates Guide: Learn about suitable tank mates for axolotls and how to create a compatible aquatic environment.
Axolotl Tank Mates: Discover a comprehensive guide on selecting tank mates for axolotls and ensuring their coexistence.
Axolotl Tank Mates: Find out about compatible tank mates for axolotls and how to create a harmonious community in your aquarium.
And here’s the FAQs section in markdown language:
FAQs
Can axolotls live with other fish?
Yes, axolotls can coexist with certain fish species that are compatible with their needs and temperament.
What are some suitable tank mates for axolotls?
Some suitable tank mates for axolotls include small, non-aggressive fish species like white cloud mountain minnows, zebra danios, and bristlenose plecos.
How do I ensure the compatibility of axolotls with other tank mates?
It’s crucial to consider factors such as size compatibility, water temperature requirements, and avoiding species that may nip at axolotls’ delicate external gills.
Can axolotls be housed with other aquatic creatures?
Axolotls can be housed with certain aquatic creatures like snails and shrimp, as long as they are not aggressive and do not pose a threat to the axolotls’ well-being.
What precautions should I take when introducing new tank mates to axolotls?
When introducing new tank mates to axolotls, it’s recommended to quarantine them first to prevent the spread of diseases. Monitor their interactions closely and be prepared to separate them if necessary.
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.