Fig.

Axolotls make great, low maintenance pets.

Axolotls
Axolotls are extremely unique as they do not evolve beyond their larval form.
Despite this, they still age and reproduce just like as any other fully formed adult amphibian would. [1]
Below is a general care guide to help you keep your Axolotls happy and healthy.

Remember to only house Axolotls of equal size together.

Axolotls are aquatic animals and all handling should be kept
to a minimum. [2]

Housing
Axolotls can be housed individually, with the chosen
aquarium being no smaller than 50cm long x 25cm
wide x 25cm tall. [2]
Or you can choose to house your Axolotls in groups,
but you must provide them with a large aquarium.
To avoid aggressive behaviour be sure to only place
Axolotls of equal size in group aquariums. [3]
A glass aquarium with a secure lid, which is kept out
of direct sunlight, is an adequate housing option.
Axolotls do not require gravel along the aquarium
floor, but should you choose to use it, ensure it is
large enough that it cannot be swallowed. [3]
Plants are not essential, unless breeding is planned. [1]
However, rocks, driftwood and live plants can all be
added to your Axolotls aquarium.
Lighting is also not essential to your Axolotls health,
but will be needed if live plants are used within the
Fig.2
Water
The water within your Axolotls aquarium needs
to be filtered and kept clean. [3]
You can either buy bottled water or install a
water filter in the aquarium.
If you do install a filter, choose a model that will
move water gently around the aquarium.
If the motion of the water overpowers your
Axolotls normal movement, it can lead to injury
and stress. [3]
Water needs to be at least 15cm deep and
must be changed over regularly. [1]
Ideal water temperature is anywhere between
14-22OC. [1]
Temperatures higher than 25 C may harm your
O

aquarium. [1] Axolotls.

 Diet
Axolotls are carnivores and require a high protein, meat-based diet. [1]

The best meat options for your Axolotls are ones that they would find in their
natural habitat, such as: small fish, worms and insects. [3]

You should never feed your Axolotls beef meat. [3]

Fig.3
There are also a variety of hard and soft pallet products available at pet
stores that can provide your Axolotls with adequate vitamins and minerals. [3]

Remember that Axolotls do not have very sharp teeth and will swallow their
food whole. It is important to feed your Axolotls items that are smaller than its
head to ensure it can be consumed in one bite! [2]

You will only need to feed your Axolotls every 2-3 days. [1]

Cleaning
When cleaning your Axolotls aquarium be sure to wash your hands before
and after, every time.

Your Axolotls aquarium should be emptied out completely and cleaned at

least every 1-2 months.
Fig.4
Wipe down all glass in the aquarium with a clean cloth or light scourer to
remove any water grim. [3]
Do not use any chemicals or cleaners, as they are toxic to your Axolotls. [3]

Licencing and Legislation

It is an offence to remove Axolotls, or any other animal, from the wild. [3]
Always buy your Axolotls from a reputable breeder or pet shop.

To keep an Axolotl you will need to first apply for a Private Wildlife Basic
Licence.
Application forms and further information are available for download on the
Fig.5 Department of Environment and Primary Industries website. [3]

REFERENCES IMAGES

[1] Axolotls 2015, The University of Queensland, viewed 13
June 2015, <http://www.uq.edu.au/vetschool/axolotls>
[2] Clare, J 2001, Ambystoma Mexicanum: Axolotl, Caudata
Culture, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://www.caudata.org/cc/species/Ambystoma/A_me
xicanum.shtml>
[3] Code of Practice for the Welfare of Amphibians in
Captivity 2014, Department of Environment and Primary
Industries, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/pets/other-
pets/amphibians/code-of-practice-for-the-welfare-of-
amphibians-in-captivity>
Fig.1 Axolotl Adolescent 2014, Deviant Art, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://orig09.deviantart.net/88a9/f/2014/070/8/2/axolotl_adolescent_by_
emokidnap-d79vds3.jpg>
Fig. 2 No Title n.d, ServImg.com, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://i10.servimg.com/u/f10/11/08/26/93/avril_11.jpg>
Fig. 3 Axolotl Eating n.d, Tumblr.com, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m0pn85tpd91qk43ago1_500.png>
Fig. 4 Enclosure n.d, Reptiles Canada, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://www.reptilescanada.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=21004&
d=1360604015>
Fig. 5 No Title 2014, Quarks to Quasars, viewed 13 June 2015,
<http://www.fromquarkstoquasars.com/wp-
content/uploads/2014/10/axolotl.jpg?