Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum)

The Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) is a animal does not cease to surprise us, both physically and for its abilities. No wonder it has become so popular in the world of fishkeeping.

The axolotl is an amphibian with special needs, but relatively accessible.

He can spend his whole life and reproduce in the larval state without ever reaching the adult stage. Moreover, in the aquarium, it lives completely immersed and, thus, promotes the development of its gills. This ability is called neotenia.

This small animal has the incredible ability to reconstruct damaged body parts, paws, tail, eyes and even part of the brain.

Unfortunately, it is critically endangered in its natural environment. Normally, all animals sold on the market are therefore breeding animals.

It is a solitary animal and will not suffer if left alone. However, living with another axolotl can help you maintain a more peaceful life, the ideal being a 120 liter fish tank for 2 individuals, as they are quite territorial.

Technical Details

Name: Axolotl

Scientific Name: Ambystoma mexicanum

Family: Ambystomatidae

Species Origin: Southern Mexico, Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco;

Length: Up to 35 cm;

Life Span: 15 – 20 years;

Care Level: Moderate;

Water Parameters

pH: Keep the pH of the water between 6.5 – 7.5

Water Hardness: Between 6 ° – 17 ° dH

Temperature: Must be kept between 14 ° C – 20 ° C

Care

Food

Axolotl are carnivores. Then, there are specific foods that will serve as a good basic diet for the animal. To vary your meals, you can offer earthworms, bloodworms and insect larvae. Axolotl usually hunt with the naked eye, although their vision is relatively poor.

Temperament / Behavior

It is a nocturnal animal. In addition, you will be able to observe greater activity at sunrise and sunset.

It lives mainly at the bottom of the aquarium. Then, if an axolotl remains on the surface constantly, it is a danger sign. So, check stress state, possible sicks or check the water parameters. They are very sensitive animals to stress.

Compatibility

A specific aquarium for the species is recommended. In fact, some small fish are used as food, but larger ones may want to “eat” the axolotl gills, which can trigger repeated infections.

Some people usually keep axolotts with guppies, zebrafish and even platys. Be aware, however, that some will disappear from time to time.

The recommended thing is that they stay with their counterparts. However, be careful with the difference in size between individuals of the same species, it should not exceed 5 cm.

Reproduction

The axolotl reproduction is very easy and does not require intervention by the hobbyist. Axolotls become sexually active after one year or when they reach about 20 cm. In general, the female is “wider” than the male.

See Also:

• Physa Acuta Snail (Physa Acuta);

Sexual activity is nocturnal and very discreet. So,internal fertilization is carried out by means of a spermatophore placed by the male on a rock or even on sand. The spermatophore is absorbed by the female’s “cloaca”.

Under the effects of a contortion of the body, the female lays eggs. Moreover, the spawning can vary from 100 to 1500 eggs, with an average of 300. The incubation lasts about 14 days. Young fish will be adults at 18/24 months of age.

Fish Tank Size

So, the aquarium needs to have a minimum of 120 liters for 2 individuals of this species. Avoid gravels, marbles, pebbles, as this batrachium may inadvertently try to swallow them and this can cause serious health problems. Choose a type of fine sand, if possible of a dark or natural color. Then, to decorate the aquarium, avoid overly protruding roots or sharp stones, as axolotls are usually injured.

These animals prefer calm waters. Basically, when choosing the filter, always leave it at minimum power. So, to maintain good water quality, complete with many plants and perform Partial Water Changes ​​of up to 20% each week. To conclude, do not forget to provide many hiding places for this animal, as they will feel safer if they have a place to stay sheltered.

References

Axolotl Passion. Available at: https://www.axolotl-passion.net. Accessed on Apr. 10 2019.

The largest genome ever: decoding the axolotl. IMP-Research Institute of Molecular Pathology. Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) January 24, 2018. Consulted on April 10, 2019

Zambrano, L., Mosig Reidl, P., McKay, J., Griffiths, R., Shaffer, B., Flores-Villela, O., Parra Olea, G .; Wake, D. 2006. Ambystoma mexicanum. In: IUCN 2007. 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.