🦎 Axolotl Care Sheet | Roxy’s Pet Shop
About Axolotls
Scientific Name: Ambystoma mexicanum
Lifespan: 10–15 years (sometimes longer)
Adult Size: 9–12 inches (23–30 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful aquatic salamanders, best kept alone or with similar-sized axolotls.
Housing
- Tank Size: Minimum 40 liters per adult axolotl; bigger tanks preferred.
- Water: Freshwater only; dechlorinated and filtered.
- Substrate: Fine sand or bare bottom recommended (avoid gravel to prevent ingestion).
- Décor: Provide hiding places like PVC pipes, caves, or aquatic plants.
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 14–18°C (57–64°F), do NOT exceed 20°C (68°F).
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–8.0).
- Filtration: Gentle filtration to keep water clean but avoid strong currents.
Feeding
- Diet: Live or frozen bloodworms, blackworms, earthworms, and specially formulated axolotl pellets.
- Feeding Frequency: Juveniles daily; adults every 2–3 days.
Maintenance
- Water Changes: 20–30% weekly water changes recommended.
- Tank Cleaning: Remove uneaten food and waste regularly to maintain water quality.
Handling
- Axolotls have delicate skin and external gills — avoid handling unless necessary.
- Always wash hands before touching tank or axolotl.
🛒 Essential Shopping List
✔️ Aquarium Tank (40L+ for one adult)
✔️ Aquarium Filter (gentle flow)
✔️ Water Dechlorinator
✔️ Fine Sand Substrate or Bare Bottom Setup
✔️ Aquarium Thermometer
✔️ Water Test Kit (pH, ammonia, nitrites, nitrates)
✔️ Hides (PVC Pipes, Caves, Plants)
✔️ Live or Frozen Food (Bloodworms, Blackworms, Earthworms)
✔️ Axolotl Pellets (specialized diet)
✔️ Aquarium Water Conditioner
✔️ Aquarium-safe Cleaning Tools