Taking care of an axolotl can be a rewarding experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned owner or new to the hobby, understanding where you might be going wrong is key to ensuring your axolotl stays happy and healthy.
This guide will walk you through the common pitfalls that many axolotl owners face and give you the tips and tricks to avoid them.
Let’s make sure your axolotl has the best environment possible so it can thrive without any unnecessary setbacks.
Improper Tank Setup

One of the biggest mistakes new axolotl owners make is setting up their tank incorrectly. Axolotls aren’t like your typical pet fish, and they need very specific conditions to stay healthy. A lot of owners might use a tank that’s too small or poorly filtered, which can cause stress and health issues.
Females can lay between 300 to 1,000 eggs during breeding.
Tank Size Matters
Axolotls need room to move around. A small tank might seem convenient, but it can lead to cramped conditions and water quality problems. The minimum recommended size for an axolotl tank is 20 gallons for one axolotl, but bigger is always better.
A larger tank provides more space for them to swim and hides to retreat to when they need some alone time.
Filtration Problems
Axolotls produce a lot of waste, so having a proper filtration system is crucial. A strong filter can create too much water movement, which stresses out your axolotl. A sponge filter is a great choice because it provides gentle filtration while avoiding strong currents.
The axolotl genome contains 32 billion base pairs, the second longest in the animal kingdom.
Incorrect Water Temperature
Axolotls are cold-water creatures and need the water temperature to stay within a narrow range. Too hot or too cold, and you’re risking their health. Owners often make the mistake of thinking room temperature is fine, but that can vary greatly, especially during summer or winter.
Ideal Temperature Range
The best water temperature for axolotls is between 60°F and 68°F (16°C – 20°C). Anything higher than this can lead to stress, slow metabolism, and even death in extreme cases. During summer, consider using a cooling fan or placing ice cubes in a sealed plastic bag to lower the water temperature if it gets too warm.
Feeding Mistakes
Axolotls are carnivorous and have specific dietary needs. Many owners either overfeed or underfeed their axolotl, both of which can cause issues.
Axolotls can regenerate limbs and organs, with studies showing they can regrow a limb in about 30 to 60 days.
Overfeeding
While it’s tempting to give your axolotl a lot of food, overfeeding can lead to obesity and digestive problems. Axolotls only need to eat a few times a week, and feeding them too much can lead to health problems like impaction.
Undernourishing
On the flip side, not feeding your axolotl enough can result in malnutrition. Make sure to offer them a variety of food, like earthworms, bloodworms, small fish, or specially formulated axolotl pellets. Just be careful to feed them what they can finish in 10-15 minutes to avoid leftover food polluting the tank.
Incorrect Water Chemistry
Axolotls are very sensitive to water quality, and changes in pH or ammonia levels can have a huge impact on their health. One of the most common mistakes is not testing the water regularly or failing to maintain proper water parameters.
pH, Ammonia, and Nitrite Levels
The water pH should be between 6.5 and 8.0, and ammonia and nitrite levels should always be zero. Regularly testing the water with a liquid test kit is the best way to ensure everything stays in balance. If you notice any ammonia or nitrite spikes, do a water change immediately.
Handling and Stress
While axolotls can be fascinating to watch, they’re not the type of pet that enjoys a lot of handling. Overhandling is a common mistake that can cause a lot of stress for your axolotl, affecting its health and behavior.
Stress from Overhandling
Axolotls have delicate skin that can easily be damaged if you handle them too much. When you do need to handle them, make sure your hands are clean and wet. Otherwise, the oils and dirt from your hands can harm their skin. It’s best to avoid picking them up unless absolutely necessary.
Handling and Water Quality
It’s also important not to disturb your axolotl too much when cleaning the tank or during water changes. Constant disruption can make them feel unsafe. Be gentle when changing water or adding new decorations to the tank.
Using the Wrong Substrate
The type of substrate you use in your axolotl tank can make a big difference to their health. Some substrates, like gravel, can be dangerous for axolotls because they may swallow it by accident, leading to a serious condition called impaction.
Best Substrates
The safest option for an axolotl tank is bare-bottom or smooth sand. Sand allows waste to settle on the surface, making it easier to clean. Gravel or any small, jagged rocks should be avoided, as axolotls may try to eat them, leading to digestive issues.
Poor Lighting Conditions
Axolotls are relatively low-light animals. Bright lighting can stress them out, so it’s important to make sure your tank’s lighting is appropriate for their needs.
Light Stress
If you use too bright a light in your axolotl’s tank, it can cause stress and make your axolotl hide all the time. Use a gentle, low-wattage light and consider dimming it or keeping the tank in a shaded area. If you want to add plants to the tank, choose low-light plants that don’t require intense lighting.
Not Providing Hiding Spots
Axolotls are naturally shy and like to have places to hide. Without the right hiding spots, they may become stressed, leading to decreased health or even aggressive behavior.
Adding Hides
Make sure your tank has several hiding spots. You can use natural decorations like caves, PVC pipes, or store-bought axolotl hides. These should be placed in different corners of the tank to give your axolotl options. It’s also good to have a dark, cool spot in the tank where your axolotl can retreat if it feels overwhelmed.
Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Keeping an axolotl tank clean is essential for their well-being. Many owners neglect regular maintenance, thinking that the tank doesn’t need much care. But improper cleaning can cause toxic build-ups, which lead to sickness.
Regular Water Changes
Make sure to change 20-30% of the water in the tank every week. This helps prevent harmful toxins from building up and keeps the water fresh. Use a water siphon to remove waste and debris, and always treat tap water with a dechlorinator before adding it to the tank.
Tank Cleaning
Along with regular water changes, you should clean your filter and scrub the walls of the tank. But be careful not to scrub too hard, as you don’t want to disturb beneficial bacteria that help with the nitrogen cycle.
Overcrowding the Tank
Axolotls are territorial and don’t always get along with other axolotls, especially if there’s not enough space in the tank. Overcrowding can lead to fights, stress, and health problems.
Giving Each Axolotl Space
If you plan on keeping more than one axolotl, make sure your tank is large enough to accommodate them. For each additional axolotl, you should have at least 10 more gallons of water. Even then, it’s important to keep an eye on them for any signs of aggression, like biting or chasing.
Lack of Research
Before getting an axolotl, it’s crucial to do thorough research about their needs. Many mistakes happen simply because new owners don’t take the time to learn about axolotl care before bringing one home.
Educating Yourself
Make sure to check reliable sources, join axolotl care forums, or even visit your local aquarium store for advice. Knowing what your axolotl needs can prevent many of the common mistakes mentioned here.
Conclusion: Care Makes a Difference
Caring for an axolotl can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes. From ensuring the tank is the right size and temperature to understanding their dietary needs, each step you take toward proper care will help keep your axolotl happy and healthy.
Remember, they rely on you to create a safe, clean, and stress-free environment. With a bit of effort and attention to detail, your axolotl can thrive and bring joy to your home for years to come!
References
Four mistakes to avoid with your axolotl aquarium – Garnelio
Common mistakes with caring for an axolotl? – Reddit
Common mistakes when keeping axolotls – Aquatana
Are axolotls really that hard to care for? – Quora
Caring for an axolotl – Reptile Centre
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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