How Long Can Axolotls Be Out of Water? Essential Care Tips for Your Pet
You’ve probably marveled at your axolotl’s unique look and quirky behavior, but have you ever wondered how long they can stay out of water? These fascinating amphibians might seem hardy, but their survival outside their aquatic home is limited.
Let’s explore what you need to know about keeping your axolotl safe and healthy, especially when it comes to time spent out of the water.
We’ll break it all down, so you can confidently care for your little underwater buddy.
Axolotls Are Designed for Life in Water

Axolotls are aquatic creatures through and through. They’re built to thrive in water, with their gills and smooth skin playing a big role in their survival. While they can survive out of water for short periods, their physiology isn’t equipped for prolonged exposure to air.
Juvenile axolotls (up to 3 inches) should be fed 2-3 times daily, while adults (over 7.5 inches) need feeding every 2-3 days due to slower metabolism.
Their gills need water to extract oxygen, and their delicate skin is prone to drying out, which can lead to stress and serious health problems.
Why Axolotls Can’t Stay Out of Water for Long
Axolotls breathe primarily through their gills, though they can also absorb some oxygen through their skin and lungs. However, these secondary methods aren’t efficient enough to sustain them for extended periods.
Without access to water, they quickly begin to suffocate because their gills dry out, making it impossible to breathe properly.
Additionally, their skin isn’t designed to handle air exposure. Axolotl skin is extremely thin and sensitive, which helps them absorb oxygen and release waste in water.
When exposed to air, their skin dries out fast, leaving them vulnerable to infections, dehydration, and stress. This is why they can only tolerate being out of water for a few minutes in most cases.
How Long Can Axolotls Be Out of Water?
While there’s no exact time limit, axolotls generally shouldn’t be out of water for more than 5 to 15 minutes. This timeframe depends on factors like humidity, temperature, and how well their skin stays moist during the time they’re exposed to air.
If conditions are dry or hot, they’ll become stressed and dehydrated much faster.
Factors That Impact How Long Axolotls Can Survive Out of Water
Several factors influence how long your axolotl can safely stay out of water. Here are the most important ones to consider:
- Humidity Levels: In a very humid environment, their skin will dry out slower, potentially extending their time out of water. But in low-humidity conditions, their skin dries out rapidly.
- Temperature: Heat speeds up dehydration. If it’s warm, your axolotl’s time out of water becomes even shorter.
- Moisture on the Skin: Keeping their skin wet can help them breathe slightly longer, but it’s not a long-term solution. Constant exposure to water is vital.
Artificial diets with 45% protein yield the best growth and survival rates for axolotls.
What Happens When an Axolotl Stays Out of Water Too Long?
If an axolotl spends too much time out of water, they’ll experience dehydration and oxygen deprivation. Signs of stress include frantic movements, dry or sticky skin, and labored breathing.
Prolonged exposure can lead to irreversible damage to their skin, gills, and overall health. This is why it’s crucial to minimize their time out of water and act quickly if you notice any signs of distress.
When Is It Okay to Remove an Axolotl from Water?
There are a few situations where you might need to take your axolotl out of its tank. These include routine care, such as tank cleaning or medical treatment. However, even in these cases, you should take extra precautions to keep your axolotl safe and comfortable.
Best Practices for Handling Axolotls Out of Water
If you need to take your axolotl out of the water, follow these tips to ensure their safety:
- Minimize Handling Time: Only remove them for a few minutes, and always aim to complete tasks as quickly as possible.
- Keep Them Moist: Use a damp, non-toxic cloth to gently wrap them and retain moisture on their skin.
- Avoid Rough Surfaces: Axolotl skin is very fragile, so make sure they’re placed on soft, smooth, and wet surfaces.
- Use a Container Instead of Hands: When possible, transfer them using a water-filled container. This reduces stress and avoids damaging their gills or skin.
Medical Emergencies and Axolotl Handling
Sometimes, medical care might require handling your axolotl out of water. For example, if you’re treating a fungal infection, you might need to apply a salt bath or antifungal treatment.
Surveys showed a drastic decline in wild axolotl populations, from 6,000 per km² in 1998 to just 100 per km² in 2008.
In these cases, ensure the process is brief and handle your axolotl gently. Always consult a vet or experienced aquarist before attempting medical procedures at home.
What to Do If Your Axolotl Accidentally Leaves the Water
Accidents happen. If your axolotl escapes its tank or is accidentally left out of water for too long, acting quickly is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:
- Return Them to Water Immediately: Place them back into their tank or a container with clean, dechlorinated water at the correct temperature.
- Check Their Skin and Gills: Look for signs of damage, such as dryness, redness, or irritation.
- Monitor Their Behavior: Keep an eye on how they’re acting. If they seem stressed, lethargic, or unable to move normally, they may need extra care.
- Provide Extra Oxygenation: Use an air pump or airstone to increase oxygen levels in their tank. This can help them recover from oxygen deprivation.
- Seek Professional Help: If your axolotl shows signs of serious distress, contact a vet or aquarist experienced with amphibians.
How to Prevent Axolotls from Leaving the Water
Prevention is always better than treatment. To keep your axolotl safe and secure in their aquatic environment, follow these tips:
Secure Tank Setup
- Use a Tight-Fitting Lid: Axolotls are known to jump, especially if startled. A tight-fitting lid prevents escapes.
- Maintain Proper Water Conditions: Stress can increase escape attempts. Keep the water clean, properly oxygenated, and at the right temperature (60–64°F).
- Avoid Overcrowding: Axolotls prefer spacious environments. A cramped tank can lead to stress and increased movement near the surface.
Observe Your Axolotl Regularly
Regular observation helps you notice any unusual behavior, such as frequent trips to the surface or attempts to climb out. These behaviors may indicate poor water quality, stress, or illness. Address the issue immediately to keep your axolotl safe and happy.
What Makes Axolotls Special as Aquatic Pets?
Axolotls stand out because of their fully aquatic lifestyle, which is rare among amphibians. Most amphibians go through metamorphosis and develop lungs for life on land, but axolotls remain in their larval stage and rely on water their entire lives.
This makes their needs unique and specific compared to other pet species.
Fun Facts About Axolotl Physiology
- Axolotls can regenerate limbs, gills, and even parts of their heart and brain!
- Their gills are external and feathery, which is different from many aquatic animals that rely on internal gills.
- They’re native to lakes in Mexico, such as Lake Xochimilco, but their natural habitats are endangered.
As an axolotl owner, understanding these unique traits helps you provide the best care for your pet.
Wrapping It All Up
Axolotls can only stay out of water for 5 to 15 minutes under ideal conditions. Their bodies are perfectly adapted for life underwater, and even short periods of air exposure can cause stress, dehydration, and oxygen deprivation.
While there are times when handling them is necessary, it’s important to limit their time out of water and take every precaution to keep them safe and comfortable.
If you’re caring for an axolotl, focus on maintaining their aquatic environment and minimizing stress. Always handle them gently, and be ready to act quickly in case of accidents.
By understanding their needs and unique biology, you can enjoy a long and rewarding relationship with your one-of-a-kind aquatic companion!
References
How long can axolotls be out of the water for? – Caudata.org
How long can Axolotls live without water? – Quora
How long can axolotls survive without the filter? – Reddit
Can you hold an axolotl? – Pet Medaily
Can Axolotls Go on Land? – Our Aquarium Life
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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