Axolotls: The Salamander that ‘Smiles’
The Axolotl, also known as the Mexican Walking Fish, is a species of Salamander with feathery gills surrounding its head. This amphibious pet has a mouth that at times resembles a broad smile, which is one of the Axolotl’s most endearing traits.
Axolotls are great pets for people who have experience caring for aquatic or exotic animals, and can live up to 10-15 years with proper care. These unusual Salamanders have soft and delicate skin, and when stressed, they may shed a limb (which they can regrow), so they should not be handled unless absolutely necessary.
If you’re interested in Axolotls for sale, please call Uncle Bill’s to ask about our available pets, as animals vary by location.
Axolotl Habitat
A 20-gallon aquarium is a suitable habitat size for one Axolotl (these animals should be housed independently). The tank should not be in direct sunlight and requires little to no special lighting. Tile, slate rock, large pebble stone (or river rock,) or certain sands may make a good substrate - and in some cases no substrate works - for this mostly aquatic amphibian.
Clean, well-oxygenated, filtered water is important to the Axolotl’s health, so use a filtration system that does not create too much of a current. Axolotls are highly sensitive to abrupt changes in water chemistry – periodic water changes of about 20% at a time ensure the water chemistry remains relatively consistent. The water temperature should be 60-75°F, and the air should be cool at around the same temperature as the water.
Axolotl Diet
In the wild, Axolotls feed on shelled invertebrates like snails and crustaceans, as well as fish and other amphibians, so frozen shrimp and worms are great substitutes for pet Axolotls. They do like a bit of variety in their diets for balance and enjoy frozen bloodworms and live blackworms. Healthy Axolotls eat well, digest food without a problem, maintain a healthy weight, and have healthy-looking skin and eyes.
Are Axolotls Right for Me?
These unusual animals are nearly extinct in the wild, but responsible breeders have ensured that people can still have an Axolotl as a pet. These creatures are interesting to watch and easy to care for, although it’s important for caregivers to protect their pet from detergents, chemicals, or other substances that could harm the delicate Axolotl’s skin. Any amphibious animal is capable of carrying diseases such as Salmonella, so children and pregnant women should not handle these animals or any items in the Axolotl’s habitat.
If you don’t need a cuddly pet and enjoy observing unique animals, then the Axolotl may be a great pet for you. Please contact Uncle Bill's to ask about our Axolotls for sale, as they may be unavailable at some locations.