The idea of seeing two axolotls share the same aquarium may seem appealing: more life in the tank, interactions between individuals, saved space. But is this cohabitation risk-free? Not really. Axolotls can be territorial, injure each other, and several conditions must absolutely be respected to avoid accidents. Here is everything you need to know before keeping multiple axolotls together.

Are axolotls sociable?

In the wild, axolotls tend to live solitary lives. In captivity, they can tolerate the presence of another individual, but they do not form social bonds like schooling fish. Cohabitation is possible, but not “natural” for them. They do not suffer from loneliness and do not need a companion to be happy.

Risks of cohabitation

Keeping two axolotls together is not without consequences. Here are the main dangers:

• Bites: axolotls use their mouth to explore, but can also bite each other, especially the gills, legs or tail.
• Food competition: if one eats faster than the other, this can lead to uneven growth and tension.
• Stress: a dominated individual may hide constantly, refuse to eat, or fall ill more easily.

These behaviours become worse in a tank that is too small or poorly arranged.

Conditions for successful cohabitation

To limit risks, several rules must be respected:

Minimum tank size

A minimum of 80 to 100 litres is recommended for two adult axolotls, with a length of at least 80 cm. The more space, the better. A good tank width also helps both individuals move around without disturbing each other.

No size differences

A larger axolotl may see a smaller one as prey, especially when young. Only keep individuals of similar size together (a difference of less than 3 cm is recommended).

Tank layout with hiding spots

The tank must offer several hiding areas (pots, caves, roots) so that each axolotl can retreat if needed. This greatly reduces tension.

Individual feeding

It is best to feed each axolotl separately, using tweezers or feeding in opposite corners of the tank to avoid competition and accidental bites.

More than two axolotls?

It is possible to keep 3 or even 4 axolotls together in a very large aquarium (150L or more), but the risk increases with each added individual. You will need to be even more vigilant, provide many hiding spots, and monitor for dominance or aggression.

When should axolotls be separated?

Some signs should alert you:

• An axolotl hides constantly
• Visible bites or repeated injuries
• Aggressive behaviour or obvious stress

If this happens, separate the axolotls immediately to avoid serious injuries or death.

Other species: absolutely not!

It is strongly discouraged to keep axolotls with fish, shrimp or other aquatic species. Fish may stress the axolotl, nibble its gills, or be eaten. Axolotls lack avoidance reflexes and can easily be injured.

Conclusion

Yes, two axolotls can live together… but it is neither necessary nor risk-free. If you attempt cohabitation, prepare a suitable environment, monitor their behaviour and be ready to separate them if needed. For beginners, it is usually best to start with a single axolotl to gain experience before considering cohabitation.