Can You Have Two Axolotls in the Same Tank? Tips for a Peaceful Setup
You’ve probably seen those adorable axolotls and thought about keeping more than one in your tank. After all, they’re so fascinating to watch with their feathery gills and quirky personalities.
But is it really a good idea to house two axolotls together?
Let’s break it all down so you can make the best decision for your aquatic buddies.
Housing Two Axolotls Together: What You Need to Know

Axolotls can live together, but it’s not as simple as just tossing two into the same tank. These creatures are solitary by nature, and while they can coexist peacefully under the right conditions, getting it wrong can lead to stress, injury, or even death.
The survival rate of axolotl hatchlings is estimated to be around 30-40% during their first year of life due to high mortality rates.
To successfully keep two axolotls in the same tank, you’ll need to understand their behavior, tank requirements, and feeding habits. Each of these factors plays a critical role in ensuring they stay healthy and stress-free.
Why Behavior Matters for Tank Sharing
Axolotls are carnivores with a natural tendency to nip at anything that moves. This can include another axolotl’s gills, limbs, or tail. While axolotls can regenerate these parts, frequent injuries from tank mates can weaken their immune system and lead to infections.
Younger axolotls are especially prone to aggression. If you’re housing two juveniles together, be prepared for frequent nipping and potential fights. Adults are generally calmer, but they still require space to avoid territorial disputes.
Signs of Stress in Axolotls
Stress can be a major issue if the tank is too small or if the axolotls feel threatened. Watch for these signs:
- Loss of appetite
- Pale or dull skin
- Frequent floating or erratic swimming
- Hiding excessively
If you notice these signs, it’s time to reassess your tank setup or consider separating your axolotls.
The Right Tank Setup for Two Axolotls
When keeping two axolotls together, space is your number one priority. Overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression, so you’ll need a tank that’s large enough for both axolotls to establish their own territories.
Axolotls reach sexual maturity between 6 to 12 months of age, depending on environmental conditions.
Tank Size Recommendations
For two axolotls, a tank with at least 40 gallons is ideal. A good rule of thumb is 20 gallons for the first axolotl and an additional 10-20 gallons for each extra one. The larger the tank, the better. A bigger space allows each axolotl to retreat to its own corner when needed.
Creating Hiding Spots
Axolotls love hiding, and providing plenty of hiding spots helps reduce conflicts. Use items like:
- PVC pipes
- Caves or rock structures
- Dense plants (live or artificial)
Place these hiding spots in different areas of the tank to give each axolotl a private retreat.
Substrate and Tank Decor
Axolotls can accidentally ingest gravel, which can cause blockages. Stick to fine sand or a bare-bottom tank to keep them safe. Avoid sharp or rough decorations that could injure their delicate skin.
Maintaining Water Quality
Water quality is crucial for axolotls, especially when you’re housing more than one. Poor water conditions can lead to stress and health problems like fungal infections. Use these guidelines to maintain a healthy tank:
- Temperature: Keep it between 60-64°F (15-18°C).
- pH Level: Aim for a neutral pH of 7.4-7.6.
- Ammonia, Nitrites, and Nitrates: Ammonia and nitrites should be at 0 ppm, while nitrates should stay below 20 ppm.
A high-quality filter and regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are essential to maintain these conditions.
Feeding Two Axolotls: Avoiding Conflict
Feeding time can be a major source of tension between axolotls. They’re opportunistic feeders and may accidentally nip at each other while going after food. Separate feeding areas or hand-feeding can help minimize conflict.
Best Feeding Practices
Here’s how to manage feeding time:
- Hand-feed: Use tweezers or tongs to deliver food directly to each axolotl.
- Feed in separate areas: Drop food at opposite ends of the tank to keep them apart.
- Monitor feeding: Ensure both axolotls are eating enough. If one is consistently outcompeting the other, consider separating them temporarily.
Ideal Diet for Axolotls
Axolotls thrive on a diet of high-protein, carnivorous foods. Offer a variety of options, such as:
- Earthworms
- Bloodworms
- Pellets designed for aquatic carnivores
- Occasional treats like shrimp or small fish (live or frozen)
When Two Axolotls Might Not Work
Even with the best setup, some axolotls simply don’t get along. Aggression, territorial behavior, or one axolotl outcompeting the other for food can make cohabitation impossible.
A single axolotl spawning can result in 200 to 1,000 eggs, depending on the female’s health and size.
If fights persist or if one axolotl shows signs of stress, it’s best to house them separately. A divider can also work if you don’t have a second tank but want to keep them in the same environment.
Tips for Introducing Two Axolotls
If you’re adding a new axolotl to an existing tank, take it slow. A sudden introduction can cause unnecessary stress or aggression.
Quarantine First
Always quarantine a new axolotl for at least 30 days before introducing it to your main tank. This helps prevent the spread of diseases or parasites. During this time, monitor the new axolotl’s health and ensure it’s eating well.
Gradual Introduction
When the quarantine period is over, introduce the new axolotl gradually:
- Place the new axolotl in a clear, separate container within the tank. This lets both axolotls see each other without direct contact.
- After a few days, remove the container and observe their interactions closely.
- Be ready to separate them if aggression occurs.
Monitor Closely
Even after a successful introduction, continue monitoring your axolotls for signs of stress or injury. Early intervention can prevent long-term issues.
Can Axolotls of Different Sizes Live Together?
Size differences can create problems in a shared tank. Larger axolotls may see smaller ones as food and attempt to eat them. To avoid this:
- Only house axolotls of similar sizes together.
- Ensure the smaller axolotl is big enough that it won’t fit in the larger one’s mouth.
If size differences are unavoidable, use a tank divider to keep them separated.
The Role of Gender in Cohabitation
Male and female axolotls can live together, but be prepared for breeding if you mix genders. Axolotls breed readily in captivity, and while this might seem exciting, it comes with responsibilities.
Breeding pairs require:
- A well-maintained tank to handle the extra bioload.
- A plan for what to do with the offspring. (Do you have space for dozens of baby axolotls?)
If you don’t want to deal with breeding, consider keeping two males or two females instead.
Key Takeaways for Axolotl Enthusiasts
Keeping two axolotls in the same tank can work, but it takes careful planning and observation. Here’s a quick recap of what you’ll need to succeed:
- A tank of at least 40 gallons with plenty of hiding spots.
- Close monitoring for signs of stress or aggression.
- A commitment to maintaining pristine water quality.
- Separate feeding strategies to avoid conflicts.
If problems arise, don’t hesitate to separate your axolotls. Their well-being always comes first.
Make the Best Choice for Your Axolotls
Whether you decide to house two axolotls together or keep them in separate tanks, the key is to prioritize their health and happiness. Axolotls are unique creatures with specific needs, and meeting those needs ensures they thrive in your care.
Take the time to set up a proper tank, monitor their behavior, and make adjustments as needed. Your axolotls will thank you with their quirky charm and endless entertainment.
References
Can Axolotls Live Together? – Rocky Mountain Axolotls
Can I keep 2 axolots in a 40-gallon tank? – Reddit
Can 2 Axolotls Live Together? – Caudata.org
Can I house two axolotls together? Will they fight? – Water Critters
Can you put 2 axolotls together? – Quora
Disclaimer
This content on Bagrica is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for pet care or farming advice. Bagrica is not liable for any actions taken based on this information.
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