How Often Do You Feed an Axolotl? Essential Tips for a Healthy Diet
You’ve got an axolotl, huh? That adorable, squishy-faced salamander is already stealing your heart, isn’t it? But now you’re stuck wondering how often to feed your little aquatic buddy.
Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Figuring out the perfect feeding routine is a key part of keeping your axolotl healthy and happy. It’s not just about tossing in food whenever—it’s about knowing your axolotl’s needs and giving them the right meals at the right times.
So let’s get into it and break things down in a way that makes sense and works for both you and your pet.
How Feeding Frequency Depends on Age

Axolotls at different stages of life have different feeding needs. Their age is one of the biggest factors in deciding how often you should feed them. Here’s why:
Feeding Baby Axolotls (Hatchlings and Juveniles)
Baby axolotls grow fast, and that means they need a lot of energy. Their bodies are constantly developing, so they need frequent meals to fuel that growth. Hatchlings and juveniles should be fed once or twice a day.
- What to feed: Baby brine shrimp, daphnia, or finely chopped bloodworms are excellent choices for hatchlings. As they grow, you can start introducing small live or frozen foods like blackworms.
- Why it matters: Feeding them daily ensures they have enough energy to grow healthy bones, muscles, and organs. Without enough food, they may struggle to develop properly.
The optimal water temperature for axolotls is between 57°F and 68°F (14°C–20°C); temperatures above this can be harmful.
Feeding Adult Axolotls
Once your axolotl reaches about 8-12 months old, they are considered adults. Adults don’t need to eat as frequently since their growth slows down. Feeding them 2-3 times per week is usually enough to keep them healthy.
- What to feed: Earthworms are the gold standard for adult axolotls because they’re nutritious and easy to digest. You can also offer frozen bloodworms, pellets specifically designed for axolotls, or occasional treats like shrimp.
- Why it matters: Overfeeding adult axolotls can lead to obesity, bloating, and other health problems. Feeding less frequently helps mimic their natural eating habits in the wild.
How Much Should You Feed an Axolotl?
The next question is just as important as how often to feed them: how much food do they need at each feeding? The answer depends on the size of your axolotl and the type of food you’re offering.
Portion Sizes for Different Age Groups
- For babies: Small meals they can consume within 15-20 minutes. Their stomachs are tiny, so smaller, more frequent feedings work best.
- For adults: Offer enough food that they can eat within 2-3 minutes. For example, one or two earthworms, depending on their size, is usually enough.
Signs You’re Feeding the Right Amount
- A well-fed axolotl has a slightly rounded belly, but it shouldn’t look overly bloated.
- Watch how they respond during feeding. If they lose interest quickly, you might be overfeeding them.
- Leftover food floating in the tank? You might be giving them too much. Remove it promptly to keep the water clean.
Estimates suggest fewer than 1,000 axolotls remain in the wild, primarily due to habitat loss and pollution.
What Happens If You Overfeed or Underfeed?
Getting the balance right is essential. Feeding your axolotl too much or too little can lead to some serious problems.
The Risks of Overfeeding
Overfeeding is more common than you might think. Many owners worry their axolotls are hungry all the time because they always look for food. But overfeeding can cause:
- Obesity: Extra weight puts strain on their organs and can lead to a shorter lifespan.
- Digestive problems: Axolotls can suffer from bloating or constipation if they’re overfed.
- Water quality issues: Excess food can rot in the tank, leading to ammonia spikes and poor water conditions.
The Risks of Underfeeding
On the other hand, underfeeding can also be dangerous, especially for younger axolotls. If your axolotl isn’t getting enough food:
- Stunted growth: Baby axolotls may not develop properly, leading to long-term health issues.
- Weakness and lethargy: A lack of energy can make them more vulnerable to illness or injury.
Should You Stick to a Feeding Schedule?
Yes! A consistent feeding schedule helps your axolotl stay healthy and reduces stress. They’ll start to recognize feeding times, making them more active and alert when it’s time to eat. Here’s a simple breakdown based on age:
- Babies: Feed at the same time daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Adults: Pick 2-3 days a week (like Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday) and stick to those days.
Sticking to a routine also helps you keep track of their appetite. If your axolotl suddenly stops eating, it could be a sign of stress, illness, or poor water conditions.
In captivity, axolotls can live up to 15 years, while in the wild, their lifespan averages 5 to 6 years due to environmental threats.
Adjusting Feeding Based on Temperature and Activity
Axolotls are cold-blooded, so their metabolism depends on water temperature. This means their appetite can change with the seasons or based on your tank setup.
When to Feed Less
- In colder water: If the water temperature drops below 60°F (16°C), their metabolism slows, and they’ll eat less. Feeding them once a week may be sufficient in colder conditions.
- During brumation (dormancy): Some axolotls slow down in winter months. If your axolotl becomes less active, reduce their feeding frequency.
When to Feed More
- In warmer water: Warmer water (but not above 72°F/22°C) speeds up their metabolism, so they may need to eat a little more.
- During growth spurts: Juveniles going through a growth phase may show increased appetite. Adjust their portions accordingly.
The Best Foods for Axolotls
A varied diet is key to keeping your axolotl healthy. Let’s look at the best food options and how often to include them.
Staple Foods
These are the foods you’ll use most often:
- Earthworms: A perfect, high-protein option for adults. They’re easy to find at bait shops or order online.
- Pellets: Choose pellets specifically designed for carnivorous aquatic animals or axolotls. These are convenient and mess-free.
Occasional Treats
Offer these foods once or twice a month for variety:
- Shrimp or fish: Cooked, unseasoned shrimp or small pieces of white fish can be a fun treat. Avoid oily or fatty fish.
- Bloodworms: Frozen or live bloodworms are a favorite, but they can’t replace staple foods like earthworms.
Foods to Avoid
Not all foods are safe for axolotls. Steer clear of these:
- Feeder fish: They can introduce diseases or parasites.
- Insects from outside: These might carry pesticides or harmful bacteria.
- Human food: Never feed your axolotl processed foods, like meat or bread.
How to Tell If Your Axolotl Is Hungry
Axolotls are pretty good at letting you know when they’re ready for a meal. Look for these signs:
- Active movement: Swimming around the tank or “begging” near the front.
- Snapping at tank decorations or plants: This can be a sign they’re looking for food.
- Hunting behavior: Chasing live food in the tank is another indicator.
If they don’t seem hungry at feeding time, don’t force it. Just remove uneaten food and try again later.
Feeding Tips for Happy Axolotls
Here are some extra tips to make feeding time smooth and enjoyable for both you and your axolotl:
- Use feeding tongs: These help you offer food without your hand entering the water. It’s less stressful for your pet.
- Feed live food occasionally: Watching them hunt live food like brine shrimp or blackworms is entertaining and provides enrichment.
- Keep their tank clean: Always remove uneaten food to prevent water quality problems.
- Observe after feeding: Make sure they’ve swallowed their food properly. Axolotls can spit out food if it’s too big or tough.
How to Adapt as Your Axolotl Ages
As your axolotl grows older, their needs will change. Keep an eye on their appetite, size, and activity level to adjust their feeding schedule as needed. Older axolotls (over 5 years old) may need even less frequent meals, like once a week, to match their slower metabolism.
Feeding Your Axolotl the Right Way Pays Off
Feeding an axolotl isn’t just about giving them food—it’s about creating a routine that keeps them healthy and happy. From feeding baby axolotls twice a day to offering adults meals a few times a week, the right schedule makes all the difference.
Stick to high-quality staples like earthworms, keep an eye on portion sizes, and adjust for factors like water temperature or age. When you feed your axolotl the right way, you’re giving them the best chance to thrive.
So grab those feeding tongs, offer up a tasty worm, and enjoy the satisfaction of being an awesome axolotl owner!
References
Axolotl Feeding – Alotta Axolotls
How often should I feed an axolotl? – Quora
How often should I be feeding my 6-month-old axolotl? – Caudata.org
How often do you feed your axolotl? – Reddit
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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