Axolotl – smiling amphibians

Axolotls are amazing animals that enthrall everyone who views them. These creatures, who are frequently referred to as "smiling amphibians" because of their endearing, ever-present smile, have an irresistible charm. Their peculiar traits and actions make them fascinating in addition to being adorable. Axolotls are native to Mexico’s lakes, but they are now common in aquariums and among pet owners all over the world.

The ability of axolotls to maintain characteristics of larvae throughout their lives is what really sets them apart. Exotic amphibians change into different species, but axolotls maintain their aquatic lifestyle and gills well into adulthood. As a result, you can enjoy their peculiar appearance and lively personality without experiencing the typical changes that come with becoming an adult in the animal kingdom.

Axolotls are renowned for their extraordinary regenerative powers in addition to their adorable appearance. They are able to regenerate portions of their heart and brain, as well as lost limbs and spinal cord. Their extraordinary skill not only increases their appeal but also draws attention from scientists studying them.

Axolotls are relatively easy to care for compared to other pets, if you’re thinking about getting one for your aquarium. They are a fantastic option for both beginning and seasoned aquarists because they are low-maintenance and thrive in cool, clean water. Their entertaining antics and never-ending "smile" will enthrall and delight the viewers of your aquarium.

Aspect	Details
Species Name	Axolotl
Common Name	Mexican Walking Fish
Appearance	Smiling face, feathery gills
Natural Habitat	Lakes and canals in Mexico
Size	6-18 inches
Lifespan	10-15 years
Diet	Worms, small fish, and insects
Care Level	Moderate
Tank Requirements	Cool, clean water; hides and substrate

Axolotl habitat in the wild

The lakes and waterways of Mexico City are axolotls’ native habitat. Dragons never set foot on land; they live their whole lives in the water. Since aquatic plants are essential to their survival, they favor deep, lush environments.

Males fertilize the eggs that females affix to aquatic plants during reproduction. It should be noted that the translation of the Aztec word "axolotl" is "water monster." The meat of dragons, which tasted like eel and was thought to have medicinal properties, was consumed by the Aztecs prior to the Spanish conquest.

Video – Interesting facts about the axolotl

Description and appearance

The larva of the ambystoma, which is found only in Mexico at an elevation of 2,290 meters above sea level, is a stocky salamander with a body length of 9 to 35 centimeters from the tip of the muzzle to the tail. Because of their longer tails, males have larger bodies than females.

Two types of ambystoma exist:

• neotenic (this is the axolotl itself – a larva that lives in water and has external gills);
• terrestrial (fully developed, smaller gills).

Although an adult axolotl’s length can reach 45 cm, it typically measures 23 cm (individuals longer than 30 cm are rare). Their ability to reach sexual maturity while still in the larval stage is what makes them unique.

Large external gills (three processes on each side of the head) and small teeth (which allow amphibians to hold prey without tearing it) are characteristics of their exteriors that set them apart. The color ranges from black to white, with some shades of gray, brown, and brown. Light-colored axolotls are more vulnerable and noticeable in the wild, but they are incredibly rare.

What is the average axolotl lifespan? They have a 20-year lifespan, but only about 10 years in an aquarium.

Popular axolotl species

This aquatic dinosaur exists in several forms; let’s familiarize ourselves with the most well-known ones.

Axolotl types in a table.

Axolotl. Keeping in an aquarium

Axolotls are challenging to keep indoors. Life expectancy is greatly influenced by a number of factors, the most significant of which is water temperature.

Aquarium requirements

These frogs are typically kept in pairs or groups, although keeping them alone is also acceptable. Additionally, an aquarium of adequate size must be provided for a group of axolotls, and the animals’ sizes should be roughly equal.

Usually, large, smooth stones are used as accent pieces. Shelters are made out of them. A particular caution should be taken to ensure that nothing that ends up in the aquarium has any sharp edges because amphibians may injure their skin or gills from them.

Crucial! Since axolotli are predators, the majority of their food consists of animal products. As a result, the aquarium gets dirty very quickly. Ensure strong filtration; for this, it is preferable to use external filters of the highest caliber.

Since amphibians use gills to breathe, adequate aeration is also crucial. A thermostat is not necessary, though, as amphibians require cool water. Conversely, though, this poses some challenges during the summer months: the aquarium’s water needs to be cooled because. Pets may even die from a fungal infection of the gills after spending a long time in warm water! Use a dedicated aquarium cooler to lower the temperature. Additionally, we advise placing the aquarium in a cool location away from radiators that heat up.

Water requirements

The best range to store at is between 14 and 20 °C, and 24 °C is the highest that can be allowed. Pets experience extreme stress in warm water, and as was already mentioned, there is an increased risk of fungal infections.

Thus, the following are the ideal water parameters:

• temperature – 14-20°С;
• hardness – 6-16;
• acidity – 7-7.5.

The water’s purity requires special attention when maintaining an aquarium containing axolotls. In addition to changing the water once a week (up to 20% of the volume), use a filter.

Lighting requirements

At night, axolotls are more active. Because their visual organs are not well developed, the animals hardly ever use them. As a result, you want to have soft lighting in the aquarium rather than too bright lighting. To achieve this, either place floating plants (riccia, salvinia, and pistia) on the surface or, if that is not possible, adjust the lighting apparatus.

Furthermore, you must construct a large number of secure hiding places for amphibians throughout the aquarium.

Soil requirements

When selecting soil for an aquarium, sand or large pebbles (3-5 cm) should be prioritized. This type of soil is too small for the pet to ingest. Be aware that some axolotl enthusiasts keep their aquariums completely devoid of soil.

Plant requirements

"Smiling amphibians" are typically housed without live plants. Low-light aquarium plants such as hornwort, anubias, cryptocorynes, echinodorus, and cladophora grow well. It is permissible for floating plants to emerge on the surface, as we have already discovered.

Aquarium enthusiasts are enthralled with axolotls due to their captivating behavior and distinct appearance. These amphibians, well-known for their never-ending "smile" and amazing regenerative powers, are a delightful addition to any tank. This article explains why axolotls are so adorable with their peculiar appearance and fascinating characteristics, as well as how to properly care for them in an aquarium to maintain their happiness and health.

What to feed axolotls?

By nature, axolotls are predators; they consume small fish, snails, and invertebrates. Since amphibians have poor vision and react to movement, it is best to feed them with your hands or tweezers.

Large bloodworms, meat from mussels and shrimp, corethra, and live or canned crickets make up the majority of the diet. Axolotls are occasionally fed extra guppy offspring. Give amphibians minced meat from warm-blooded animals; their digestive systems aren’t designed for this kind of food. A feeding is necessary for adults once every two to three days!

Although it is possible to teach them to do so, amphibians hardly ever consume dry food. If you choose to do this, make sure you only use premium dry food, like Tetra ReptoFrog Granules. These granules are balanced, easy to swallow, and packed with enough protein to support healthy growth.

Compatibility: Axolotley neighbors

Few amphibians can coexist with these because they are predators. There are some subtleties involved, but you can house an axolotle group if the aquarium’s dimensions permit. The truth is that cannibalism is highly prevalent among them. Strong individuals frequently attack the weak by biting their limbs, gills, etc. D. This typically occurs in a small aquarium, particularly when the food is inadequate. But because axolotls are incredibly good at regenerating, they can easily replace lost body parts when conditions improve.

Additionally, selecting fish neighbors is difficult because most of them will either be consumed or begin to harm the amphibians. Remember the temperature as well; most tropical fish do not do well in cool water.

Kindly take note! Goldfish stands alone as a contender. Their body size prevents them from fitting into amphibians’ mouths, and they can survive in cool water without any issues. However, they can also attack axolotls, so carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages. See also the article on giving goldfish the right food.

Axolotls have a distinct charm and fascinating biology that make them incredibly fascinating creatures. They are a delightful addition to any aquarium because of their everlasting smile and endearing appearance. Neoteny, the ability of axolotls to maintain their juvenile characteristics throughout life, sets them apart from many other amphibians. Because of this, they have a unique, almost otherworldly appearance that piques people’s interest.

Axolotls are fascinating animals with a variety of traits beyond just their charming smile. They have the amazing capacity to regenerate lost body parts, such as the spinal cord, limbs, and even portions of the brain and heart. Their remarkable ability to regenerate not only draws attention from scientists but also emphasizes their special place in the animal kingdom.

It’s crucial to give these amazing frogs a proper habitat if you’re thinking about putting one in your aquarium. They need a clean, well-maintained tank with the right filtration since they do best in cool, fresh water. Knowing their needs and habits will guarantee that they stay healthy and keep their everlasting smile adding color to your aquatic setup.

In conclusion, axolotls are living wonders with intriguing biological characteristics, not just adorable amphibians. They are a remarkable addition to any aquarium because of their amiable appearance and distinctive qualities. You can spend many years with these amazing creatures and their constant smiles if you take care of their unique care needs.

Video on the topic

Axolotl. Regeneration. Axolotl"s paw was bitten off.

▽ Amazing creature axolotl

Axolotl solves a Rubik"s cube

Visual example! Axolotl turns into an ambystoma

Axolotl – All about the ambystoma species | Ambystoma species – Axolotl