Axolotls require spacious, stable environments to thrive. Proper tank size and setup are foundational to their health and longevity.

Recommended Tank Size

• Minimum 20-gallon long tank for one adult axolotl

• Add +10 gallons for each additional axolotl

• Long tanks are preferred over tall tanks for floor space and oxygen exchange

Tank Setup Essentials

• Fully aquatic, freshwater aquarium only

• Secure lid to prevent escapes and reduce evaporation

• Low to moderate water flow to avoid stress

• Gentle filtration with minimal current

Filtration

• Sponge filters or low-flow canister filters recommended

• Avoid strong currents or spray bars aimed directly into the tank

• Filter should be fully cycled before introducing an axolotl

Lighting

• Axolotls do not require bright lighting

• Low-light or ambient room lighting is sufficient

• Provide hides to allow retreat from light

Hides & Environment

• At least one hide per axolotl

• Use smooth, aquarium-safe materials only

• Provide open floor space for movement and resting

Important Notes

• Bowls, nano tanks, and uncycled setups are not appropriate

• Tank must be fully established before adoption

• Stability is more important than aesthetics

Stable, clean water is the single most important factor in axolotl health. Axolotls are extremely sensitive to poor water quality, and an uncycled or unstable tank can quickly become fatal.

Ideal Water Parameters

• Ammonia: 0 ppm (always)

• Nitrite: 0 ppm (always)

• Nitrate: Under 20 ppm (lower is better)

• pH: 6.5–8.0 (stable matters more than exact)

• Hardness: Moderate is preferred

The Nitrogen Cycle (Required)

• Axolotl tanks must be fully cycled before introduction

• Cycling establishes beneficial bacteria that convert waste into safer compounds

• Cycling typically takes 4–8 weeks

• Axolotls should never be used to “cycle” a tank

Testing & Monitoring

• Use a liquid test kit for accuracy

• Test water regularly, especially in new setups

• Sudden changes in parameters can cause stress or illness

Water Changes

• Perform regular partial water changes (20–30%)

• Frequency depends on tank size, stocking, and filtration

• Always treat tap water with a dechlorinator

• Match temperature closely to avoid shock

Common Water Quality Mistakes

• Skipping the cycling process

• Relying on strips instead of liquid tests

• Overfeeding leading to ammonia spikes

• Infrequent maintenance

Key Takeaway

• Clear water does not mean clean water

• Stable parameters matter more than perfection

• Proper cycling is non-negotiable for axolotl care

Axolotls are cold-water amphibians, and temperature control is critical to their health. Prolonged exposure to warm water is one of the most common causes of stress, illness, and shortened lifespan in axolotls.

Ideal Temperature Range

• 60–68°F (16–20°C) is optimal

• Short-term tolerance up to 70°F may occur, but is not ideal

• Temperatures above 72°F are dangerous and can be fatal

Why Temperature Matters

• High temperatures reduce oxygen levels in water

• Heat increases metabolism, stress, and susceptibility to disease

• Warm water accelerates harmful bacterial growth

Cooling Solutions

• Aquarium chiller (most reliable option)

• Cooling fans to promote evaporation

• Frozen water bottles as a temporary measure

• Climate-controlled room when possible

Heating Warnings

• Heaters are not recommended

• Axolotls do not require tropical temperatures

• Sudden temperature changes can cause shock

Monitoring

• Use a reliable digital thermometer

• Monitor daily, especially during warmer months

• Have a heat-response plan in place before adoption

Key Takeaway

• Cool, stable water is essential

• Temperature stability matters more than short-term fluctuations

• If you cannot maintain proper temperatures, axolotls may not be a suitable species

Proper nutrition is essential for axolotl growth, immune health, and longevity. Axolotls are carnivorous and require a diet that meets their specific nutritional needs.

Primary Diet

• High-quality axolotl or salamander pellets

• Earthworms or nightcrawlers (appropriately sized)

• Soft, protein-rich foods designed for aquatic amphibians

Feeding Frequency

• Juveniles: once daily

• Adults: 2–3 times per week

• Portion size should be appropriate to body size and age

Foods to Avoid

• Feeder fish (risk of parasites and injury)

• Freeze-dried foods as a primary diet

• Fatty meats or human food

• Insects with hard exoskeletons

Feeding Tips

• Remove uneaten food promptly to protect water quality

• Observe feeding behavior for signs of stress or illness

• Consistent appetite is a key health indicator

Supplementation

• A balanced diet typically does not require supplements

• Over-supplementation can be harmful

Key Takeaway

• Quality matters more than variety

• Overfeeding is more harmful than underfeeding

• Clean feeding practices protect both health and water quality

Axolotls explore their environment with their mouths, which makes substrate and décor choices critically important. Unsafe materials can cause impaction, injury, or long-term health issues.

Safe Substrate Options

• Bare-bottom tanks (easiest to maintain and safest)

• Fine sand only, once axolotls are large enough

• Smooth slate or tile placed securely

Unsafe Substrates

• Gravel or pebbles of any size

• Decorative stones that can fit in the mouth

• Sharp or rough materials

• Glass marbles

Decor Guidelines

• All décor should be smooth, stable, and aquarium-safe

• Avoid sharp edges or narrow openings

• Secure heavy items to prevent shifting or collapse

• Choose materials that will not leach chemicals

Plants

• Live plants may be used if tolerant of cold water

• Silk or soft artificial plants are acceptable

• Avoid plastic plants with sharp edges

Hides

• At least one hide per axolotl

• Openings should allow full entry without scraping

• Dark, enclosed spaces reduce stress

Key Takeaway

• If it fits in the mouth, it can be swallowed

• Safety always outweighs aesthetics

• Simple setups are often the healthiest

Axolotls are best kept either alone or with other axolotls under carefully controlled conditions. Most tank mates pose a risk due to biting, stress, or water parameter incompatibility.

Safest Option

• Species-only tank

• Axolotls of similar size housed together with ample space and hides

Axolotl-to-Axolotl Considerations

• House only axolotls of similar size

• Never mix juveniles with adults

• Monitor closely for nipping or aggression

• Separate immediately if injuries occur

Tank Mates to Avoid

• Fish of any kind (fin nipping, parasites, stress)

• Snails (impaction risk)

• Shrimp (may be eaten and can impact water quality)

• Other amphibians or reptiles

Why Tank Mates Are Risky

• Axolotls have poor eyesight and may bite accidentally

• Stress increases susceptibility to illness

• Many species require warmer water than axolotls can tolerate

Key Takeaway

• Axolotls are not community tank animals

• “Peaceful” fish are not safe tank mates

• When in doubt, house separately

Healthy axolotls are active, alert, and have full, feathery gills. Subtle changes in behavior or appearance are often the first signs that something in the environment needs attention.

Signs of a Healthy Axolotl

• Smooth skin with no sores or lesions

• Gills that are full and feathery

• Regular appetite

• Calm but responsive behavior

Common Signs of Stress

• Gills curled forward

• Loss of appetite

• Excessive floating or lethargy

• Frequent attempts to escape the tank

Common Health Issues

• Fungal infections (often linked to poor water quality)

• Gill damage from high flow or tank mates

• Impaction from unsafe substrate

• Heat stress from elevated temperatures

Prevention

• Maintain stable water parameters

• Keep temperatures within the safe range

• Perform regular water changes

• Avoid overcrowding and unsafe décor

When to Take Action

• Test water parameters immediately if behavior changes

• Address environmental issues first

• Seek an exotic veterinarian if symptoms persist

Key Takeaway

• Most health issues are preventable with proper care

• Axolotls show stress before serious illness develops

• Early intervention makes a significant difference

Axolotls are long-lived aquatic animals that require consistent care over many years. Bringing one home is a long-term responsibility, not a short-term project.

Lifespan

• Axolotls commonly live 10–15 years with proper care

• Their needs remain consistent throughout their life

Ongoing Care Requirements

• Regular water testing and maintenance

• Routine partial water changes

• Temperature monitoring year-round

• Consistent feeding and observation

Time & Attention

• Daily visual health checks

• Weekly maintenance tasks

• Occasional equipment upgrades or replacements

Financial Considerations

• Initial setup costs (tank, filtration, cooling)

• Ongoing expenses for food, water treatment, and supplies

• Potential veterinary care with an exotic specialist

Environmental Stability

• Axolotls are sensitive to sudden changes

• Moves, long power outages, or neglect can be dangerous

• A stable home environment is essential

Key Takeaway

• Axolotls thrive with routine, patience, and consistency

• Prospective keepers should be prepared for long-term care

• Responsible ownership benefits both the animal and the keeper