How Do I Breed Axolotls at Home?

So, you’re thinking about breeding axolotls at home? It’s an exciting journey that can bring lots of joy, but it does require patience, preparation, and a good understanding of their needs.

These unique amphibians have specific breeding habits, and getting it right means creating the perfect environment.

Let’s explore how you can make your axolotl-breeding experience a success.

Setting the Stage for Breeding Axolotls

Before your axolotls can breed, you need to ensure they’re in the best possible environment. Healthy, happy axolotls are more likely to breed successfully.

Axolotls can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care.

Choosing the Right Axolotls

Start by selecting male and female axolotl that are at least 12-18 months old. They should both be healthy, with no signs of illness or injury. Keep in mind:

• Males usually have a broader, longer tail and a swollen cloaca.
• Females have a rounder, wider body, especially when ready to lay eggs.

Avoid inbreeding by ensuring they’re not siblings or closely related. Genetic diversity helps produce stronger offspring.

Setting Up the Perfect Tank

Axolotls need a stress-free, clean environment to breed. Use a tank that’s at least 20 gallons, and make sure it’s properly cycled. The water temperature should stay between 60-64°F (15-18°C) to encourage breeding.

• Use a sponge filter to maintain water quality without creating strong currents.
• Add hiding spots like plants or caves for comfort and security.
• Include a flat, smooth surface (like a slate or tile) where the female can lay her eggs.

Regularly check water parameters, ensuring ammonia and nitrite levels are at zero, with nitrates below 20 ppm.

Preparing for Breeding Season

Axolotls naturally breed in cooler months, so mimic these conditions by slightly lowering the water temperature over a few weeks. A sudden temperature drop of 2-3°F can trigger mating behavior. Also, feed them a protein-rich diet, such as:

• Live blackworms
• Bloodworms
• Pellets designed for axolotls

Healthy, well-fed axolotls are more likely to breed successfully.

In their natural habitat, axolotls typically live around 5 to 6 years.

Recognizing Breeding Behavior

Once the conditions are right, you’ll notice changes in their behavior. Male axolotls become more active and may start depositing spermatophores (small jelly-like structures) around the tank. Females will pick them up if they’re ready to mate.

If the female accepts the spermatophores, she’ll fertilize her eggs internally and begin laying them within 24-48 hours. Be patient—it can take several hours for her to lay all the eggs, often spreading them across the tank.

Caring for Axolotl Eggs

Now that the eggs are laid, your job is far from over. Proper care is essential to ensure they hatch successfully.

Separating the Eggs

Axolotls don’t care for their eggs and may even eat them. Gently remove the eggs from the tank using a soft net or your hands, placing them in a separate, clean container with fresh, dechlorinated water.

• Keep the temperature between 68-72°F (20-22°C) for faster hatching.
• Replace 50% of the water daily to maintain cleanliness.

Avoid placing too many eggs in one container. Overcrowding can lead to poor water quality and fungus growth.

Axolotls can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.

Watching for Fungus

Fungal infections can quickly spread among eggs, killing them. Check the eggs daily and remove any that turn white or fuzzy. You can use methylene blue (a fish-safe antifungal treatment) to prevent fungus from spreading.

Waiting for Hatching

Axolotl eggs typically hatch in 10-14 days, depending on water temperature. You’ll notice tiny larvae emerging, each about half an inch long. Don’t worry if not all eggs hatch—some losses are normal.

Raising Axolotl Larvae

Hatching is just the beginning. Larvae require special care to grow into healthy juveniles.

Feeding the Larvae

Newly hatched larvae don’t eat for the first 24-48 hours as they absorb nutrients from their yolk sacs. Once they’re ready, offer live baby brine shrimp as their first food. Other options include:

• Microworms
• Daphnia
• Powdered axolotl food (once they’re larger)

Feed small amounts several times a day, removing uneaten food to keep the water clean. Clean water is critical to prevent illness and ensure proper growth.

Tank Setup for Larvae

Larvae are sensitive to water quality, so keep their environment pristine. Use a shallow container with gentle aeration. Avoid strong currents, as larvae are weak swimmers.

As they grow, move them to larger containers, maintaining consistent water changes. Group larvae of similar size together to prevent cannibalism, which is common in axolotl larvae.

Transitioning to Juveniles

After 4-6 weeks, larvae develop front and hind legs. Once they reach about 2 inches in length, they can eat larger foods like bloodworms or finely chopped earthworms. At this stage, start transitioning them to a larger tank.

Common Challenges When Breeding Axolotls

Breeding axolotls isn’t without its challenges. Here are some common issues and tips to handle them.

Unsuccessful Breeding Attempts

Sometimes, axolotls won’t breed despite your efforts. Check these factors:

• Is the water temperature cool enough?
• Are they well-fed and healthy?
• Are they old enough or too stressed?

Patience is key. Sometimes, giving them more time or adjusting their environment can make all the difference.

Egg Fungus and Poor Hatching Rates

Fungal growth on eggs is a common problem. Prevent it by keeping the water clean, maintaining proper spacing between eggs, and using antifungal treatments. If hatch rates are low, review your water temperature and quality—it may be too warm or contaminated.

Cannibalism in Larvae

Larvae will eat each other if they’re overcrowded or underfed. Always separate larvae by size and provide plenty of food. It’s better to house fewer larvae in more containers than to cram too many into one.

Tips for Success

Breeding axolotls takes practice, but these tips can help:

• Always quarantine new axolotls before introducing them to your breeding pair to prevent disease.
• Keep detailed records of water parameters, breeding dates, and hatch rates.
• Be prepared to care for dozens or even hundreds of larvae—breeding can result in more offspring than expected.

Finally, don’t rush the process. Axolotls breed best in stress-free, stable environments.

Wrapping It All Up

Breeding axolotls at home can be a rewarding experience, especially when you see your tiny larvae grow into healthy adults. By creating the right environment, carefully monitoring water quality, and meeting their specific needs, you’ll give your axolotls the best chance to thrive.

Take it slow, enjoy the process, and remember that patience and preparation are your best tools. Ready to give it a shot? Your axolotls—and their future offspring—are counting on you!

References

Guide to Axolotl Husbandry

Axolotl Breeding – Reptiles Magazine

Axolotl Care Sheet and Breeding

Breeding Axolotls Successfully

Best Axolotl Breeding Complete Updated Guide 2024

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.

We Recommend You Also See