🐠 Fish & Amphibians

Axolotl

The smiling salamander that never grows up.

Axolotls are aquatic salamanders that keep their feathery gills for life. They need cool, clean water and a calm setup. They are illegal in a few states, including California.

Lifespan10–15 years
SizeSmall · 9–12 in
Care levelModerate
Typical cost$20–40 / month
Great for
Patient ownersCool homesCalmCuriousSolitary
Axolotl

Photo: LoKiLeCh · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

20-gallon long minimum, kept at 60–64°F, gentle filtration, fine sand or bare bottom (no gravel).

Earthworms, axolotl pellets and bloodworms.

Floor space to walk and explore.

Weekly water changes; test ammonia and nitrite regularly.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Heat stress
  • Fungal infections
  • Impaction from gravel
  • Gill deterioration
  • Bacterial infections
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Find an exotics vet familiar with amphibians.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.