Axolotl Care Guide
Axolotls are fascinating amphibians that stay in their aquatic larval stage for their entire life, a condition known as neoteny. With their feathery gills, wide smiles, and curious personalities, they’re captivating creatures that make fantastic pets for knowledgeable and committed keepers.
Habitat and Tank Setup
Axolotls need a minimum tank size of 60 litres for a single adult. A larger tank will always offer better water stability and space for movement. The substrate should be bare-bottomed or consist of fine sand only. Gravel and small stones can easily be swallowed by accident, potentially causing impaction and severe health issues. Axolotls prefer cool water kept between 14 and 18 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above 20 degrees can cause significant stress or illness. Filtration should be gentle, as they do not tolerate strong currents. Low lighting is recommended, as axolotls are light-sensitive due to the lack of eyelids. To keep your axolotl comfortable, add hiding spots such as caves, aquarium-safe plants, or smooth PVC tubes, and avoid any sharp decor items.
Water Quality
Clean, stable water conditions are crucial to the health of an axolotl. The water should have a pH level between 6.5 and 8.0. Ammonia and nitrite levels must remain at zero, while nitrate levels should be kept below 40ppm. Perform partial water changes of 25 to 50 percent weekly using dechlorinated water. Before adding your axolotl, make sure the tank has completed the nitrogen cycle. Testing the water regularly with an aquarium test kit helps ensure a safe and stable environment.
Feeding
Axolotls are carnivorous and require a protein-rich diet to thrive. Staple foods include specialist axolotl pellets, earthworms, frozen bloodworms, and blackworms. Juvenile axolotls should be fed once a day, while adult axolotls generally eat two to three times a week. Any uneaten food should be removed from the tank within 30 minutes to avoid fouling the water. A healthy axolotl typically has a good appetite, and sudden changes in feeding behaviour may indicate stress or illness.
Behaviour and Handling
Axolotls are solitary creatures and do not need tank mates. Housing more than one axolotl together can lead to injuries, especially if one is smaller than the other. They do not enjoy being handled and should only be moved when necessary. Always use clean, wet hands or a soft net. Signs of stress may include floating, curled gills or tail, loss of appetite, or a pale appearance. If these behaviours appear, review the tank setup, temperature, and water quality first.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Daily spot-cleaning is helpful to remove waste and uneaten food. Monthly, rinse filter media in tank water to avoid killing beneficial bacteria. Weekly water tests using a reliable kit are essential to monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. Regular maintenance reduces stress on your axolotl and ensures their environment remains healthy and safe.
Common Health Concerns
Axolotls can occasionally show signs of health issues. If your axolotl is floating constantly, it may be due to trapped gas or constipation. In this case, reduce feeding and check the water parameters. A curled tail or gills may suggest stress, often linked to high temperatures or strong water flow. A loss of appetite could be caused by poor water conditions or the onset of illness. If white or cotton-like fungus appears on the skin or gills, it may be the result of an injury or dirty water, and salt baths may be required. If you are unsure, bring a clear photo and a water sample into store — our team will be happy to help.
Summer Cooling Tips
During warm weather, axolotls are prone to heat stress. Keep the tank cool by using a fan to blow across the surface of the water, which helps with evaporation and cooling. Floating frozen bottles of dechlorinated water can also help — avoid using ice cubes as they may contain harmful chlorine. Turning off lights and keeping curtains closed can also reduce room temperatures during heatwaves.
What You’ll Need
To care for an axolotl properly, you’ll need an aquarium and a secure lid, a good-quality water conditioner, a test kit to monitor water parameters, a thermometer, fine sand or a bare-bottom tank, suitable hides and decor, axolotl-specific food, and a siphon cleaner to perform water changes.
Available In-Store and Online
Everything you need for axolotl care is available in-store or online at Water World. From starter kits and tanks to filters, food, and water treatments, our aquatics team is here to help you set up and maintain the perfect axolotl habitat.
Still Have Questions?
If you’d like more advice, pop into store and speak with our friendly aquatics team or reach out via our contact form. Whether you're just getting started or need help troubleshooting, we're here to support you every step of the way.
