EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

• Minimum Size: 20 gallons for one axolotl, 10 gallons for each additional axolotl.
• Ideal Size: 30 gallons for one axolotl or more, especially if you plan to keep more than one.

Axolotls can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm), so they need ample space to move around. Avoid small tanks as they can cause stress and stunted growth.

• Water Temperature: 57–68°F (14–20°C). Axolotls thrive in cooler water, so a water chiller may be necessary if you live in a warmer climate.
• pH Level: 6.5–8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline).
• Hardness: Soft to moderate water hardness is ideal (3–14 dGH).
• Water Quality: Keep water clean and ammonia-free. Axolotls are sensitive to poor water quality.
  • Ammonia, Nitrites: Always zero.
  • Nitrates: Below 20 ppm.
• Filtration: Use a gentle filter (sponge filter or a low-flow filter) to avoid strong currents, which axolotls do not like.

• Best Option: Bare-bottom tanks or fine sand. Sand is ideal if you don’t mind a little mess. Avoid gravel or large pebbles as axolotls can ingest them, leading to impaction.

• Hiding Spots: Axolotls like places to hide, so provide caves or plants where they can feel secure.
• Live or Artificial Plants: Live plants are great, but avoid plants that could be easily uprooted. Floating plants can also provide shade and hiding spaces.
• Sculptures or Decorations: Smooth, non-toxic decorations are fine, but avoid sharp objects that could injure your axolotl’s sensitive skin.

• Staple Foods: Worms (earthworms, nightcrawlers), live or frozen bloodworms, and specially formulated axolotl pellets.
• Occasional Treats: Small fish (like feeder guppies), small shrimp, or even pieces of chicken or beef heart.
• Feeding Frequency:
  • Juveniles: Twice a day.
  • Adults: 2-3 times per week, depending on their appetite and activity level.

• Axolotls are carnivorous and have a very large appetite. Use tongs or tweezers to feed them, especially if feeding worms, to avoid them from ingesting substrate or getting injured by accidentally biting something too large.
• Don’t overfeed them. They should be able to finish the food within 5-10 minutes.
• Ensure they have access to clean, fresh water after meals to aid digestion.

• Water Changes: Perform partial water changes (25-30%) once a week. More frequent changes may be necessary if you're keeping more than one axolotl.
• Test Water Regularly: Use aquarium water test kits to check for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly.
• Dechlorinator: Always use a water conditioner to remove chlorine or chloramine from tap water before adding it to the tank.

• Lighting: Axolotls do not require strong lighting. In fact, they prefer dim or ambient light. Excessive lighting can stress them out and promote algae growth.
• Temperature Control: Axolotls are sensitive to temperature changes. If your room temperature is higher than 68°F (20°C), consider using a water chiller or cooling fan to maintain a steady temperature.

• Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections are common in axolotls, especially if the water quality is poor. Symptoms include swelling, loss of appetite, or discolored patches on the skin.
• Amputation of Limbs: Axolotls can regrow limbs, tails, and even parts of their heart and brain! However, it’s crucial that the water conditions are optimal for the regeneration process.

• Axolotls have very delicate skin and should be handled as little as possible. If you do need to move them, use a soft net or wet hands. Avoid grabbing them by the limbs.

• Loss of appetite
• Unusual or excessive swimming (for instance, swimming erratically in circles)
• Fading or darkening of color
• Bloating or irregular movements

If your axolotl shows signs of stress or illness, check your water parameters and consult a vet specializing in amphibians.

• Breeding Setup: If you want to breed axolotls, you’ll need a separate tank with appropriate water conditions. During breeding, males will create a spermatophore (a sperm packet), which the female will pick up with her cloaca.
• Egg Care: The female will lay eggs, which can hatch in 2-3 weeks. The larvae are small and need very fine food like infusoria or micro-worms in their early stages.

• Compatibility: Axolotls are generally solitary animals. Keeping more than one in the same tank can lead to stress or even cannibalism, especially if they’re of different sizes. If you do house more than one, ensure the tank is large enough and monitor them closely.
• Lifespan: With proper care, axolotls can live for 10–15 years.
• Regeneration: Axolotls are famous for their regenerative abilities. If they lose a limb, tail, or even parts of their organs, they can grow them back over time, provided they are kept in clean, stable conditions.

Axolotls are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require a specific setup to thrive. They are fascinating creatures and can make a rewarding pet if you’re committed to maintaining the proper water quality, temperature, and feeding regimen. With the right care, they can live long and healthy lives, offering you a glimpse into the remarkable world of amphibians!

If you have any more questions or need help troubleshooting an issue, feel free to ask!