How Often Should I Feed My Axolotl?

You’ve just brought home your new axolotl, and you’re probably staring at it, wondering if it’s hungry already.

Feeding these quirky little amphibians is a huge part of keeping them happy and healthy. But how often should you feed your axolotl? Getting the feeding schedule just right can feel tricky at first, but don’t worry.

With a little guidance, you’ll have it down in no time, and your axolotl will thrive. Let’s break it all down step by step, so you know exactly what to do.

The Basics of Feeding Axolotls

Axolotls aren’t your average pet, so their feeding habits might surprise you. These amphibians have unique dietary needs based on their age, size, and activity level. Knowing these factors will help you build the perfect feeding routine.

The axolotl’s wild population is critically endangered, with estimates suggesting fewer than 1,000 individuals remain in their natural habitat due to habitat loss and pollution.

How Often Should Baby Axolotls Eat?

Baby axolotls, also known as larvae, have a fast metabolism. This means they need food often to support their rapid growth. Feed your baby axolotl every day, twice a day, if possible. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Use small, live foods like brine shrimp or daphnia.
• Remove uneaten food after 10-15 minutes to keep the water clean.
• Stick to smaller portions, but don’t let them go hungry.

Baby axolotls grow quickly, so consistent feeding ensures they develop properly. Watch their bellies – a slightly rounded belly after feeding means they’ve had enough.

What About Juvenile Axolotls?

Juvenile axolotls, typically 3-6 months old, can be fed once a day. At this stage, they can handle larger foods like bloodworms or small earthworms. Keep these tips in mind:

• Offer a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs.
• Make sure the food size matches their mouth – nothing too big.
• Feed in the evening since axolotls are more active at night.

Axolotls can regenerate their limbs up to 5 times, with full regrowth taking approximately 30 to 50 days for each limb.

This phase is when they start slowing their growth slightly, so you’ll notice they don’t need to eat quite as often.

Feeding Adult Axolotls

Adult axolotls, over a year old, have a slower metabolism. Feeding them two to three times a week is usually enough. Here’s how to make their meals count:

• Use high-protein foods like nightcrawlers, blackworms, or pellets made for axolotls.
• Adjust the amount based on their size – an adult’s meal should be about the size of their head.
• Always remove leftover food to maintain water quality.

Axolotls can become overweight if overfed, so don’t give in to their pleading looks for more food. They’re great at convincing you they’re starving, even when they’re not!

What to Feed Your Axolotl

Axolotls are carnivorous, meaning they thrive on a diet rich in animal protein. Choosing the right foods is just as important as the feeding schedule.

A population survey in Xochimilco revealed only 42 axolotls in an area of 39,173 m², highlighting their critical endangerment.

Live Foods

Live foods are a favorite for axolotls because they trigger their hunting instincts. Some popular options include:

• Brine shrimp: Ideal for babies and juveniles.
• Earthworms: A nutrient-packed staple for adults.
• Daphnia and bloodworms: Perfect for variety and juveniles.

Live foods are excellent for keeping your axolotl engaged, but make sure they’re sourced from a reputable supplier to avoid introducing contaminants.

Frozen or Prepared Foods

If live foods aren’t your thing, frozen or prepared options work just as well. These include:

• Frozen bloodworms or blackworms: Convenient and nutritious.
• Axolotl pellets: A balanced diet in a bite-sized package.
• Cut-up shrimp or fish: Occasionally, but not as a staple.

Always thaw frozen foods before feeding and cut larger items into manageable pieces to prevent choking.

Foods to Avoid

Not all foods are safe for axolotls. Avoid these at all costs:

• Feeder fish: They often carry parasites or diseases.
• Insects with hard shells: Like mealworms, which can be tough to digest.
• Human food: Processed foods or anything seasoned can harm them.

Stick to their natural diet, and you’ll avoid most issues.

Tips for Creating a Feeding Schedule

Creating a feeding routine for your axolotl doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps to make it work for both of you:

1. Track Their Age: Babies need daily feeding, juveniles eat once a day, and adults eat a few times a week.
2. Set a Time: Feed them in the evening when they’re naturally more active.
3. Watch Their Behavior: If they stop eating or seem sluggish, adjust the schedule or check their environment.
4. Don’t Overfeed: Their belly should be round but not bloated after eating.

A consistent routine helps your axolotl stay healthy and reduces waste in the tank.

Troubleshooting Common Feeding Problems

Sometimes, axolotls can be picky eaters or seem uninterested in food. Here’s how to handle it:

Why Isn’t My Axolotl Eating?

If your axolotl isn’t eating, don’t panic. Check these factors:

• Water Temperature: They prefer cooler water, around 60-64°F. Warmer water can stress them out and affect their appetite.
• Water Quality: High ammonia or nitrates can make them sick. Test the water regularly.
• Illness or Stress: Look for signs like lethargy, gill damage, or unusual behavior.

Addressing environmental issues often brings their appetite back.

How to Encourage Picky Eaters

If your axolotl turns its nose up at food, try these tricks:

• Offer a variety of foods to see what they prefer.
• Wiggle live foods in front of them to grab their attention.
• Use tweezers to mimic movement with frozen or prepared foods.

Patience is key. Axolotls sometimes take time to adjust to new diets or schedules.

Feeding Axolotls in Groups

If you’ve got more than one axolotl, feeding gets a little trickier. These amphibians are solitary eaters and can get competitive over food.

• Feed Them Separately: Use a feeding jar or hand-feed to ensure everyone gets their fair share.
• Monitor Behavior: Watch for signs of aggression or one axolotl hogging all the food.
• Space Out Feeding Areas: If feeding in the tank, place food in different spots to avoid conflict.

Group feeding takes a bit more effort but helps maintain peace among your axolotls.

Cleaning Up After Feeding

Keeping your tank clean after feeding is crucial for your axolotl’s health. Uneaten food quickly fouls the water, leading to poor conditions.

• Use a turkey baster or aquarium vacuum to remove leftovers.
• Feed small portions to minimize waste.
• Test water parameters weekly to catch any spikes in ammonia or nitrates.

A clean tank means a happy and healthy axolotl.

The Importance of Watching Your Axolotl’s Weight

Axolotls can easily become underweight or overweight if their feeding schedule is off. Here’s what to watch for:

• Underweight Axolotls: Sunken sides or a visible backbone mean they need more food.
• Overweight Axolotls: A bloated or overly round belly indicates they’re eating too much.

Adjust their portion sizes or frequency to get them back on track.

Final Thoughts on Axolotl Feeding

Feeding your axolotl doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to a schedule based on their age and size, choose the right foods, and keep their tank clean.

Pay attention to their behavior and weight, and make adjustments as needed. Axolotls may be quirky, but once you nail their routine, they’re some of the easiest (and cutest) pets to care for.

Ready to try out these tips? Start small, keep it consistent, and watch your axolotl thrive. A happy axolotl makes for a happy owner!

References

Axolotl Feeding – Alotta Axolotls

How Often Do You Feed Your Axolotl? – Reddit

Axolotl Feeding Guide: How Often Should You Feed Your Axolotl? – The Exotic Pets

How to Properly Feed Your Axolotl – Axolotl Central

Feeding Your Axolotl: A Complete Guide – PetMeDaily

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