Frequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to the most common questions people ask about axolotls, from basic care and tank setup to feeding, health, and rehoming.
General Axolotl Care
How hard are axolotls to care for?
Once you are all set-up, day to day requirements become much easier. Follow our care guides for all help and support you need
What is their ideal temperature?
They love it cool! Aim for 16–18°C (60-64°F) to keep them stress-free; any warmer can make them very uncomfortable.
How long do they live?
With good care and a healthy diet, these bubbly buddies can live for 10 to 15 years.
Feeding & Diet
What should I feed my axolotl?
Earthworms are the gold standard! You can also offer high-quality pellets specifically made for axolotls to keep them strong.
How often should they eat?
Adults are happy with a meal every other day. Growing juveniles have a bigger appetite and need a feeding every single day.
Are there any unsafe foods?
Yes, stay clear of feeder fish or anything with a hard shell, as these can cause health issues or introduce parasites.
Health & Troubleshooting
What are signs of stress or illness?
Look for curled gill stalks or a tail tip curved like a 'candy cane'. It's usually a polite way of saying they need a water change!
When should I call a vet?
If they stop eating for several days, develop white fuzzy patches, or seem to have trouble swimming, it's best to consult a professional.
What are common beginner mistakes?
Using aquarium gravel (danger!) or adding an axolotl before the tank cycle is finished are the most common slips. Don't worry, we can help!
Tank Setup
What is the minimum tank size?
A 20-gallon 'long' tank is the perfect starter home for one axolotl, giving them plenty of floor space to walk around.
What about tank mates?
Axolotls are safest when kept alone. Small fish might nip their gills, and bigger ones might just become an accidental snack!
Which substrate is best?
Very fine aquarium sand or a bare-bottom tank is best. Axolotls suck up their food, and gravel is a major choking hazard.
Health & Troubleshooting
Answers to common health concerns to help you master supportive aquatic care and reduce pet-parent anxiety.
How can I tell if my axolotl is stressed?
Watch for gills curled forward toward the face or a tail tip that stays hooked in a 'J' shape. Stress is often caused by strong water flow or water temperatures above 18°C—both of which are quick and easy to resolve!
What should I do about white fuzz on their gills?
That's likely fungus, a common sign of a drop in water quality. Don't worry, it's very treatable! Cooler water and gentle 'tea baths' help them recover quickly. Ensure you test your ammonia levels right away.
When is it time to call a specialized exotic vet?
If your axolotl stops eating for a week, looks unusually bloated, or shows persistent illness, professional care is key. Always reach out to a vet experienced in amphibian care.
Feeding & Diet FAQs
What is the best food for a healthy pet axolotl?
Earthworms (like dendrobaena) are the gold standard! They provide complete nutrition for adults. For younger axolotls, bloodworms and high-quality sinking pellets are also great supportive options.
How many times a week should I feed my axolotl?
Adults only need to eat 2 to 3 times a week, as their metabolism is slow. However, if you have a growing juvenile, they will need a small meal every single day to support their fast development!
Are there any foods that are unsafe or dangerous?
Yes. Avoid feeder fish, which carry parasites, and never give them beef or pork. Also, avoid hard shells (like shrimp) as they can cause 'impaction', which is a serious internal blockage.
Tank Setup & Maintenance
Everything you need to know about creating a safe, cool, and clean underwater home for your axolotl.
What is the minimum tank size?
For one adult, a 20-gallon 'long' tank is the absolute minimum. However, we highly recommend 40 gallons to help keep water parameters stable and give them plenty of room to roam safely.
How do I cycle my tank?
Fishless cycling is vital! You need to build a colony of beneficial bacteria to process toxic ammonia. This usually takes 4-8 weeks of adding ammonia and testing until nitrites drop to zero.
Which water parameters are safe?
Keep Ammonia and Nitrite at 0 ppm, Nitrates below 20 ppm, and pH between 7.4-7.6. Consistency is key, so we recommend using a high-quality liquid test kit once a week.
What is the best substrate?
Fine aquarium sand or a bare bottom are your best bets. Axolotls suck in food and inadvertently swallow gravel, which can lead to life-threatening impaction. Stick to soft sand only!