Axolotl
Leucistic Axolotl
Ambystoma Mexicanum
Axolotls are functionally extinct in the wild. So, what can we do to preserve their species? Give them a loving home, of course!
The axolotl is a paedomorphic salamander closely related to the tiger salamander. It is unusual among amphibians, in that it reaches adulthood without undergoing metamorphosis. Instead of taking to the land, adults remain aquatic and gilled.
Commonly mistaken for fish, axolotls are unique among the amphibian family in that they spend their entire lives in water. Axolotls are sometimes known as Mexican walking fish, on account of their appearance and adopted habitat.
Axolotls were first introduced to Europe in 1863. A group of 34 were exported from Lake Xochimilco in Mexico to France as part of scientific studies on limb growth. They quickly spread across Europe as pets and most captive-bred axolotls sold worldwide have at least part of their ancestry from that first study group.
Axolotls are not for the beginning fish keeper, as they require specialized care. Handling, bright lights, warm temperatures, poor water quality and strong currents can stress them.
Axolotls reach 12 inches, if not hybridized! 1 axolotl can comfortably be kept in a 20 long for their entire life. They require constant cool water between 60-65 degrees F, but never above 72, as their immune system will shut down. It is recommended to keep their tank bare bottom until they are 6 inches in length, so that they don't accidently ingest the sand and become impacted. Once of size, a very fine grain sand can be used. They are also very light sensitive, so it is very important to provide floating plants, smooth caves for cover, and any decoration added needs to be smooth, as their skin is very delicate. Strong flow can also stress them out, so we recommend an air powered sponge filter for optimum comfort of your axolotl. Also, they can be prolific jumpers, so a tight fitting tank lid is also recommended. Axolotls thrive best in parameters of pH 7.4-7.6, GH 7-14 d, KH 3-8 d, temp. 60-65, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and 20 ppm nitrate or under. It is also imperative that if you use a dechlorinator, that you use an amphibian safe dechlorinator, as aloe is toxic to axolotls.
They are voracious carnivores. In the wild, they will attempt to eat anything smaller than themselves. Because of this, they should not be housed with other species of fish, snails, and amphibians. Axolotls will eat live prey such as earthworms, bloodworms and blackworms. We have ours eating Hikari Carnivore pellets, as well.
This listing is for 1 juvenile leucistic axolotl 3.5-4.5 inches in size. Leucistic axolotls have a pale white color and bright pink or red gills. Unlike Albinos, these axolotls have dark-colored eyes and sometimes, freckles on their heads and bodies. Axolotls cannot be shipped to California, Maine, New Jersey, D.C., New Mexico, and Hawaii.
Current Price: $40.00
Stock Level: 12
Store Name: Peplin Creek Aquatics
Store Rating:
Seller Location: Wisconsin, United States
Shipping: Please review checkout for final shipping options based on items selected, quantity, and groupings.
- USPS Priority Medium: Fits 1 for $20.00
- USPS Priority Large: Fits 2 for $25.00