Introduction: Why Axolotls Are Amazing (But Challenging) Pets
Axolotls are one of the most unique, fascinating pets you can have. These “Mexican walking fish” (they’re actually amphibians!) look like adorable underwater dragons with their feathery gills, permanent smiles, and ability to regenerate lost limbs. They’re trending on social media, beloved by aquarists, and absolutely captivating to watch.
My axolotl, Noodle, is a leucistic (pale pink with black eyes) beauty who loves hunting earthworms, doing lazy laps around her tank, and resting on her favorite rock. She’s curious, gentle, and has the most expressive face—her “axolotl smile” never fails to make me happy.
But here’s the truth: axolotls are NOT beginner-friendly pets, despite what TikTok might suggest. They need cold water (60-68°F—NO room temperature!), pristine water quality (fully cycled tank, 0 ammonia/nitrite), a carnivorous diet, and special substrate considerations. They’re sensitive, long-lived (10-15 years), and illegal in some states. If you mess up their care, they can develop serious health issues or die.
When I first got Noodle, I made mistakes—water too warm, gravel substrate (she got impacted), and not understanding the nitrogen cycle. She stopped eating, her gills shriveled, and she became lethargic. Once I corrected my mistakes (chiller, bare-bottom tank, proper cycling), she recovered and has been thriving ever since.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know to keep an axolotl healthy and happy.
By the end of this guide, you’ll understand:
- How to set up the perfect axolotl tank
- Water temperature and quality requirements (CRITICAL!)
- What and how to feed your axolotl
- Common health issues and prevention
- Legality and ethical considerations
Let’s dive in.
Understanding Axolotls: Species and Biology
Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are fully aquatic salamanders native to the ancient lake system of Xochimilco near Mexico City. They’re critically endangered in the wild due to habitat loss and pollution.
Key facts about axolotls:
1. Neotenic Amphibians
Axolotls remain in their larval form their entire lives (they never undergo metamorphosis like other salamanders). They keep their external gills and stay fully aquatic.
2. Regeneration Superpowers
Axolotls can regenerate limbs, gills, organs, parts of their brain and spinal cord—without scarring! This makes them subjects of scientific research.
3. Cold-Water Species
Axolotls need water at 60-68°F. Temperatures above 72°F cause stress and can be fatal. This is THE #1 care requirement.
4. Carnivorous
Axolotls are carnivores that eat worms, small fish, and insects in the wild.
5. Lifespan: 10-15 Years
With proper care, axolotls live 10-15 years (some reach 20+). Long-term commitment!
6. Size: 9-12 Inches
Adults reach 9-12 inches in length. They’re surprisingly large!
7. Color Morphs
- Wild type (brown/olive with dark spots)
- Leucistic (pale pink with black eyes—like Noodle!)
- Albino (golden/white with pink eyes)
- Melanoid (solid black)
- Many others
8. Sensitive to Handling
Axolotls have delicate skin and no protective slime coat. Handling stresses them and can cause skin damage. They’re observe-only pets.
Noodle is leucistic, about 10 inches long, and 3 years old. She’s gentle, curious, and incredibly photogenic!
Legality and Ethical Considerations
CHECK YOUR LOCAL LAWS BEFORE GETTING AN AXOLOTL!
Illegal in:
- California
- Maine
- New Jersey
- Virginia (unless permitted)
- Some cities/counties
Restricted/requires permit:
- New Mexico
- Hawaii
- Washington D.C.
Why illegal?
Concerns about invasive species if released into wild, impact on native salamanders.
Ethical considerations:
- Axolotls are critically endangered in the wild
- All pet axolotls are captive-bred
- Never release pet axolotls into the wild (different genetics, can harm ecosystems)
Setting Up the Perfect Axolotl Tank
Tank Size
Minimum for one axolotl: 20-gallon long tank
Recommended: 40+ gallons (more water = more stable parameters)
For each additional axolotl: Add 10-20 gallons
Tank shape: Long and shallow (more floor space) is better than tall
Multiple axolotls:
Only house axolotls of similar size together (large ones may bite smaller ones). Adults can cohabitate if tank is large enough.
I keep Noodle alone in a 40-gallon breeder tank (36″x18″ footprint). She has plenty of space to swim and explore.
Water Temperature (CRITICAL!)
Ideal temperature: 60-68°F (64-66°F is perfect)
Maximum safe temperature: 72°F (above this causes severe stress, metabolic issues, death)
How to achieve cold water:
Most homes are 70-75°F—TOO WARM for axolotls!
Options:
1. Aquarium chiller (BEST but expensive):
- Active Aqua, JBJ, Hailea chillers
- Cost: $200-500+
- Maintains precise temperature
- Most reliable method
2. Clip-on fans:
- Multiple fans blowing across water surface (evaporative cooling)
- Lowers temp 2-5°F
- Cost: $20-60
- Works in cooler homes
3. Frozen water bottles:
- Float frozen bottles in tank
- Labor-intensive, temp fluctuations
- Emergency solution only
4. Keep tank in basement/cool room:
- If home has naturally cool areas
- Monitor with thermometer
I use an aquarium chiller set to 65°F for Noodle’s tank. It was expensive but worth it—consistent temperature is essential.
Monitor temperature daily with a reliable aquarium thermometer.
Never use heaters—axolotls need cold water!
Filtration
Axolotls produce LOTS of waste—filtration is essential.
Best filter type: Canister filter or sponge filter
Requirements:
- Gentle flow (axolotls don’t like strong currents)
- Biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration
- Sized for your tank (or slightly larger)
Flow rate: 3-4x tank volume per hour (but use spray bar or baffle to reduce current)
I use a canister filter rated for 50 gallons on Noodle’s 40-gallon tank, with a spray bar to diffuse the output. Flow is gentle, and water stays crystal clear.
The Nitrogen Cycle (NON-NEGOTIABLE!)
You MUST cycle your tank before adding an axolotl.
Axolotls are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite (both are toxic).
The cycle:
- Ammonia (from waste, uneaten food) → TOXIC
- Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia into Nitrite → ALSO TOXIC
- Different bacteria convert nitrite into Nitrate → Much less harmful (removed via water changes)
How to cycle (fishless cycling):
- Set up tank with filter, substrate (if using), decorations
- Add ammonia source (pure ammonia or fish food)
- Wait 4-8 weeks, testing water daily
- When ammonia and nitrite read 0 ppm and nitrate is present, cycle is complete
- Now you can add your axolotl
Test water regularly: API Freshwater Master Test Kit (liquid tests, not strips)
Target parameters:
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm (do water changes when it rises)
- pH: 6.5-8.0 (axolotls are adaptable)
I cycled Noodle’s tank for 6 weeks before adding her. Her water parameters have been stable ever since.
Substrate (CRITICAL DECISION!)
Options:
1. Bare bottom (SAFEST for beginners):
- No substrate
- Easy to clean
- Zero impaction risk
- Not as natural-looking
2. Fine sand (only if axolotl is 6+ inches):
- Fine, soft sand (play sand, aquarium sand)
- Axolotls can pass fine sand if accidentally ingested
- Natural-looking
- Harder to clean
NEVER USE:
- Gravel (causes impaction—axolotls ingest it and can’t pass it—often fatal)
- Large rocks
- Any substrate with pieces larger than the axolotl’s head
I use bare bottom for Noodle’s tank. It’s easy to clean (just siphon waste during water changes) and zero impaction risk.
Decorations and Hides
Axolotls need hiding spots.
Safe decorations:
- Terracotta pots (smooth edges, large opening)
- PVC pipes (cut to size, smooth edges)
- Driftwood (ensure it’s aquarium-safe, no sharp points)
- Live plants (Anubias, Java fern—low light, easy)
- Smooth rocks
Avoid:
- Sharp decorations (axolotl skin is delicate)
- Small objects (can be ingested)
- Decorations with small openings (axolotls can get stuck)
Noodle has two large terracotta pots, smooth river rocks, and live Anubias plants. She loves hiding in her pots and resting on her rocks.
Lighting
Axolotls don’t need special lighting—they prefer dim environments.
Lighting tips:
- Use low-intensity lighting or none at all
- Provide shaded areas (plants, hides)
- Too much light causes stress
I use a simple LED aquarium light on low setting for a few hours daily (mostly to view Noodle and help plants). Otherwise, ambient room light is fine.
Feeding Your Axolotl
Axolotls are carnivores.
What to Feed
Best staple foods:
1. Earthworms (BEST—Noodle’s favorite!):
- Nightcrawlers or red wigglers
- High in protein, nutritious
- Can be bought at bait shops or online
- Feed 1-2 whole earthworms every 2-3 days (adults)
2. Bloodworms (frozen):
- High in protein
- Convenient
- Feed as supplement, not sole diet
3. Axolotl pellets:
- Hikari or Rangen pellets
- Sinking pellets (axolotls are bottom feeders)
- Convenient but less nutritious than live food
Occasional treats:
- Brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Small pieces of raw shrimp (unseasoned!)
Feeding schedule:
Juveniles (under 6 inches): Daily, small amounts
Adults (6+ inches): Every 2-3 days, 1-2 earthworms or equivalent
How to feed:
- Use feeding tongs or drop food near axolotl
- Remove uneaten food after 10-15 minutes (prevents water quality issues)
NEVER FEED:
- Feeder fish (risk of parasites, disease, and high fat content)
- Live goldfish/minnows (risk of impaction from bones)
I feed Noodle 1-2 large earthworms every 2-3 days. She hunts them enthusiastically (her little chomps are adorable!).
Water Changes and Maintenance
Axolotls are sensitive to poor water quality—maintenance is critical.
Water Change Schedule
Weekly: 20-25% water change
If ammonia/nitrite spikes: Daily partial water changes until parameters stabilize
How to do water changes:
- Siphon out old water (vacuum waste from bottom)
- Treat new water with dechlorinator (removes chlorine/chloramine)
- Match temperature of new water to tank water (very important!)
- Slowly add new water
Never do 100% water changes—removes beneficial bacteria.
Water Conditioner
Always treat tap water with dechlorinator before adding to tank.
- Seachem Prime (detoxifies ammonia/nitrite temporarily, removes chlorine)
- API Stress Coat
Testing Water
Test water weekly (or more if issues arise):
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
- Temperature: 60-68°F
I test Noodle’s water weekly and do 20% water changes every Sunday. Her parameters stay perfect.
Handling and Interaction
Axolotls should NOT be handled except when absolutely necessary (moving to hospital tank, health checks).
Why no handling:
- Delicate skin (no protective slime coat like fish)
- Stress (they’re prey animals)
- Human hands are warm (temperature stress)
- Risk of injury
If you must handle:
- Wet your hands first
- Scoop gently with both hands supporting body
- Keep handling brief
Axolotls are observe-only pets—enjoy watching them, but don’t handle them.
Common Health Issues
Impaction
Cause: Ingesting gravel, large food pieces, or foreign objects
Signs: Bloated belly, not pooping, lethargy, floating
Treatment: Fridge temp (35-40°F) for 1-2 hours daily (slows metabolism), gentle massage, vet visit if severe
Prevention: Bare bottom or fine sand substrate, appropriate food size
Fungal Infections
Cause: Poor water quality, injury, stress
Signs: White/gray cotton-like growth on skin or gills
Treatment: Salt bath (2-3 teaspoons per gallon for 10-15 minutes daily), improve water quality
Prevention: Pristine water quality, avoid injuries
Stress (Curled Gills, Forward Gills)
Cause: Poor water quality, high temperature, stress, illness
Signs: Gills curled forward or frayed (healthy gills should be fluffy and pointing back)
Treatment: Test water, lower temperature, reduce stress
Prevention: Proper water parameters and temperature
Floating
Cause: Swallowed air, impaction, gas buildup
Signs: Unable to sink, floating at surface
Treatment: Fridge rest, reduce feeding
Prevention: Proper feeding, avoid surface feeding
Injuries
Cause: Sharp decorations, bites from tank mates, mishandling
Signs: Visible wounds, missing limbs, damaged gills
Treatment: Clean water, salt baths (if fungal infection develops), time (axolotls regenerate!)
Prevention: Smooth decorations, appropriate tank mates
Noodle once had a fungal infection on her gills from poor water quality. Daily salt baths and improved water changes cleared it up within a week.
When to See a Vet
Find an exotic vet experienced with amphibians BEFORE you need one.
See vet immediately if:
- Not eating for 1-2 weeks
- Visible severe injuries
- Labored breathing
- Severe bloating
- Rapidly declining health
Costs of Axolotl Ownership
Initial Setup: $400-800+
- Tank (40-gallon): $50-100
- Aquarium chiller: $200-500 (or fans $20-60 if home is cool)
- Canister/sponge filter: $40-100
- Test kit: $25-35
- Decorations, hides: $30-60
- Axolotl: $30-100 (depending on morph)
Monthly Costs: $20-40
- Earthworms/food: $10-20
- Water conditioner: $5
- Electricity (chiller, filter): $10-20
Yearly Costs:
- Replacement filter media: $30-50
- Misc. supplies: $50-100
Axolotls are moderately expensive, mostly due to the chiller.
Conclusion: Are Axolotls Right for You?
Axolotls are incredible pets—unique, fascinating, and rewarding. But they’re not easy.
You’re a good fit for an axolotl if:
- You can maintain cold water (60-68°F)—this often requires a chiller
- You can commit to 10-15 years of care
- You’re willing to learn about water chemistry
- You can provide weekly water changes
- You’re in a state where they’re legal
You might reconsider if:
- You can’t afford/provide cold water setup
- You want a pet you can handle
- You’re new to aquariums (consider fish first)
- They’re illegal where you live
Noodle has been an absolute joy. Watching her hunt, seeing her little smile, observing her regenerate a damaged gill—it’s all incredibly rewarding. But she requires precise care, and I’m glad I did my research before getting her.
Ready? Here’s your action plan:
- Check legality in your state
- Set up tank and cycle for 4-8 weeks
- Install chiller or cooling method
- Test water parameters
- Purchase axolotl from reputable breeder
- Acclimate carefully
- Enjoy your aquatic dragon!
FAQ
Q: Can axolotls live out of water?
A: No! Axolotls are fully aquatic and cannot survive out of water.
Q: Do axolotls need a heater?
A: NO! Axolotls need COLD water (60-68°F). Heaters will kill them.
Q: Can axolotls live with fish?
A: Not recommended. Fish may nip axolotl gills, and axolotls may eat small fish.
Q: Why are my axolotl’s gills shrinking?
A: Stress, poor water quality, high temperature, or illness. Test water immediately.
Q: Can axolotls regrow limbs?
A: Yes! Axolotls can regenerate limbs, gills, organs, and more—usually within weeks to months.
Q: Are axolotls good for beginners?
A: No. They require precise water parameters, cold water, and careful maintenance. Better for intermediate aquarists.
Q: Can axolotls live in a bowl?
A: Absolutely not! Minimum 20 gallons, fully filtered and cycled.