Scientists and aquarium enthusiasts alike have been captivated by the fascinating creature known as the axolotl, or Ambystoma mexicanum. This unusual amphibian, which is native to Mexico, is notable for both its amazing appearance and its fascinating ability to live its entire life as a larva. The axolotl does not change from larva to adulthood like most other amphibians do; instead, as it ages, it keeps its juvenile characteristics, such as its fin-like tail and gills.
The axolotl’s external gills, which resemble feathery appendages on either side of its head, are among its most remarkable characteristics. In addition to giving the axolotl its unique appearance, these gills are essential to its respiration process because they enable it to take in oxygen straight from the water. Because of its aquatic lifestyle, axolotls are ideal for aquarium living because they live in water their entire lives.
Axolotls are extremely vulnerable to extinction in the wild because of habitat loss and pollution, but they are relatively simple to care for in captivity. They have a reputation for being able to regenerate damaged or lost limbs, spinal cords, and even portions of the brain and heart. Their remarkable ability to heal enhances their allure and renders them a fascinating and scientific subject.
Knowing the particular requirements of an axolotl is crucial for anyone thinking about putting one in their aquarium. They need a tank with lots of hiding places and cool, clear water. These fascinating animals can flourish and add a hint of exotica to your aquarium setup with the right care.
Habitat and Range
It inhabits the lakes of Xochimilco and Chalco in Mexico, as well as the nearby canals, in the wild.
The summertime temperature of these lakes, which are situated at a height of 2240 meters above sea level, seldom goes above 20 °C, but in the winter, it hardly ever falls below 6-7 °C.
In order to prevent flooding, five lakes in the Valley of Mexico have been drained and are now nearly gone. The only remnants of the former Lake Xochimilco are its canals. The axolotl, which is native to Mexico, has only one surviving natural habitat, which is Lake Xochimilco. This species was also found in Lake Chalco prior to its drainage.
Description
The axolotl has a rounded, flat head. There are two small nostrils on the wide snout. The eyes lack eyelids and are small, round, and widely spaced. There are three external appendages on either side of the head: gills. These organs allow the animal to breathe.
Its four appendages terminate in immature feet; there are four toes in front and five behind. Its limbs aid in its ability to walk on land, but they are insufficiently strong to enable it to emerge from the water. With a veil atop, its tail is the source of its strength. The tail is the means of propulsion.
Because it lacks scales, the skin is thin, elastic, slippery, and extremely sensitive. Its breathing is also aided by this. Mucus-producing glands can be found there.
The primary hue ranges from nearly black to gray and brown. This species comes in different color variations: Base color: wild form (to brown and gray), Copper (yellow with speckles) – Cooper Axolotl, Black Melanoid Axolotl, White Albino Axolotl, Golden Albino Axolotl, Leucite Axolotl (white with black eyes), Harlequin Axolotl, and Chimera Axolotl (fusion of two embryos).
Size:
The biggest member of the family Ambystomatidae. Its typical dimensions are in the range of 20 to 30 cm.
Behavior and compatibility
This animal is mostly nocturnal. Additionally, you will notice that there is more activity at dawn and dusk.
It mostly inhabits the aquarium’s bottom. It also walks rather than swims. An axolotl is in distress if it remains close to the surface all the time. If it is ill, assess its stress level and the water’s parameters.
Be aware that stress affects it very easily.
Since it is solitary by nature, loneliness will not affect it. Its relatives’ company is advantageous. Given their territorial nature, set aside at least 80 liters for each individual in this scenario.
In short, it is preferable to stay away from living with fish. Actually, people eat small fish. Because axolotls can choke after ingesting snails, even snails are dangerous.
Some people still keep axolotls alongside cardinalfish, guppies, and danio rerio. But remember that occasionally, some of them do vanish.
Living with family is without a doubt the best cohabitation. Take caution, though, as individual differences in size shouldn’t be more than 4-5 cm.
They are not violent, but occasionally they may bite their relatives’ paws or gills as a result of their poor vision. Since the injured party will eventually grow the missing part, this is still only a minor issue.
Aquarium
The aquarium should have a minimum length of 80 cm and a minimum width of 40 cm in order to provide maximum space. The water will be at least 40 centimeters high.
Steer clear of pebbles, gravel, and glass beads as they may inadvertently swallow them and develop major health issues. Select very fine (2 mm and up to 4 mm) sand that is not sharp and, if at all possible, dark or natural in color for amphibians longer than 20 cm. Cover the aquarium’s bottom with a layer of soil that is 5 cm thick. It is poisonous to them, so never place fertile soil underneath it.
Avoid using too-prominent sharp stones as decorations since they can cause injuries.
Since the animal is nocturnal, lighting is not required. If your aquarium is closed, add floating plants if you are installing a lighting system for plants.
Remember that heating is completely pointless at this temperature.
The aquarium will stay "cold," the plants will be more vibrant, and better ventilation will result from keeping the lid open.
When it comes to plants, pick ones that don’t require a lot of light and can withstand relatively cold water. Choose echinodorus, duckweed, cryptocoryne, anubias, java moss, and java fern for this.
Avoid using driftwood in your aquarium because axolotls may become poisoned by the tannins it secretes.
Water parameters:
In the range of 14 to 20 °C pH range: 7.0 to 8.5 Hardness: 6–17 degrees Celsius dGH
First of all, they do not like currents and prefer standing water. However, they are major polluters. Therefore, it will be necessary to provide powerful filtration (3-5 times the volume of the aquarium per hour), which will ensure good mixing and good water quality. On the other hand, make sure that the current is mainly directed to the top of the tank. This way, the current will be limited to their living area (the bottom of the tank). Feel free to "break" the current at the pump outlet against one of the walls of the tank. To maintain good water quality, stock them with plenty of plants and do large and regular water changes of at least 20% every week.
Feeding
They are a hunter. Axolotls can have foods made especially for them that make up a healthy foundational diet. You can also give them earthworms or bloodworms to change up their diet. You can also serve beef heart as a treat.
Always feed them until they are satisfied. They will either spit out the food or turn away from it when they are satisfied.
The size of the axolotls determines how frequently they need to be fed in order to grow; the smaller they are, the more often they need to be fed; the larger they are, the longer the time between meals.
| Axolotl Size | Feeding Frequency |
|---|---|
| 1-5 cm | 3-4 times a day |
| 5-10 cm | 1-2 times a day |
| 10-12 cm | 5 times a week |
| 12-15 cm | 3 times a week |
| 15-20 cm | 2-3 times a week |
| > 20 cm | 1-2 times a week |
Adult fish should eat less; young fish do not mind overeating. Let them fast for no longer than two weeks, though, as this will raise the possibility of cannibalism.
However, never feed them anything that contains iodine.
Sexual Dimorphism
Neoteny is the preservation of juvenile traits in adults; in the case of the axolotl, this is represented by the fact that it reaches sexual maturity without undergoing a metamorphosis. Put another way, axolotls are capable of reproducing while they are larvae.
After a year or when they grow to a height of roughly twenty centimeters, they reach sexual maturity. The fingertips go from light to dark or from transparent to dark in color. Before this age, it is challenging to differentiate between the sexes. The female is typically "wider" than the male. The female has a flat, short cloacal area, whereas the male has a swollen, long one.
Aquarium enthusiasts find the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) to be an intriguing aquatic creature due to its remarkable regenerative abilities and distinctive appearance. These endearing amphibians, native to Mexico, are set apart by their external gills and eternal juvenile state, which serve as a topic of conversation and a living example of the wonders of nature. Keeping them happy and healthy in a home aquarium requires an understanding of their environmental needs and care requirements.
Breeding
Rather easy to do without the need for an aquarist’s assistance.
Reduce the temperature to between 10 and 15 °C to encourage spawning if your axolotls are not reproducing well.
The time frame for breeding is late fall through spring. The male can detect the scent that the female releases when she is ready to reproduce. The male then deposits spermatophores, which are sperm-containing jelly. After the female settles on the jelly, fertilization takes place inside her abdomen. One to three days after these occurrences, spawning can start. A typical spawning batch contains 300 eggs, but it can contain up to 1500. About 14 days pass during incubation.
Keep in mind that females lay eggs even when a male isn’t around. Nonetheless, it will be beneficial for them to get together occasionally.
Artemia nauplii: feeding the young.
Axolotls turn from young to adults at 18 or 24 months of age.
If you give it proper care, it can live for 15 to 20 years.
| Aspect | Description |
| Common Name | Axolotl |
| Scientific Name | Ambystoma mexicanum |
| Native Habitat | Lake Xochimilco, Mexico |
| Size | 6-18 inches (15-45 cm) |
| Color Varieties | Wild-type, leucistic, albino, golden |
| Diet | Worms, small fish, pellets |
| Tank Conditions | Cool water, 60-68°F (15-20°C), low flow |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Special Care | Regular water changes, avoid strong currents |
The fascinating and unusual axolotl provides an enthralling window into the aquatic world. It has gained popularity among both researchers and aquarium enthusiasts due to its remarkable appearance and regenerative capabilities. It is especially fascinating and charming because of its neoteny—the ability to live entirely in its larval form.
Although it takes some specialized knowledge to care for an axolotl, the effort is well worth it. Giving these animals the ideal habitat—cool, clean water and a comfortable setting—guarantees that they will flourish and display their best qualities. They are a wonderful addition to any aquarium due to their calm disposition, and you can frequently see them interacting and exploring their surroundings.
In conclusion, the axolotl is a remarkable option for anyone looking to infuse their aquatic setup with a dash of the extraordinary due to its charm and distinctive biological features. There are countless opportunities to explore the wonders of amphibian life with these fascinating creatures, regardless of your experience level. Accepting their care and becoming knowledgeable about their requirements can result in a fulfilling and enriching encounter that will improve your aquarium and deepen your appreciation of the animal kingdom.
