Mistakes to avoid with an axolotl

Welcoming an axolotl into your home is a fascinating experience, but like any animal, it requires very specific living conditions. Unfortunately, many beginners make the same mistakes, often due to a lack of knowledge or because of inaccurate information found online. These missteps can harm the animal’s health or even significantly shorten its lifespan. Here’s a clear list of the main mistakes to avoid when starting out with an axolotl.

Setting up too small of an aquarium

One of the most common mistakes is housing an axolotl in a tank that is too small. A tank shorter than 60 cm is far too cramped for an adult. You should allow at least 80 liters for a single individual, and more if you keep several. Limited space can cause stress, injuries, poor water quality, and slowed growth.

Choosing a dangerous substrate

Fine gravel is the number one enemy of axolotls. While foraging or trying to eat, they can accidentally swallow small stones, which may cause intestinal blockages that can be fatal. Choose a bare-bottom tank, very fine axolotl-safe sand, or a well-designed aquascaping substrate.

Using unsuitable water

Tap water is not always suitable as is. Chlorine and heavy metals must be neutralized using a water conditioner. In addition, axolotls need cool, stable water: ideally between 15 °C and 18 °C. Above 20 °C, their metabolism speeds up and the risk of illness increases.

It is also essential to respect the nitrogen cycle. Installing a filter is not enough: you must cycle the aquarium before introducing the animal, otherwise you risk causing a toxic nitrite spike.

Feeding them too often (or not enough)

Overfeeding is another common mistake. An adult axolotl only needs 2 to 3 meals per week, no more. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, increased waste production, and digestive problems. On the other hand, juveniles need more regular feeding (daily), and a lack of food can slow their growth or weaken them.

Exposing them to excessive lighting

Axolotls dislike bright light. They are naturally adapted to dark environments with little water movement. Intense LED lighting without hiding spots can stress them. Opt for soft lighting and install floating plants or decorations so they can rest in the shade.

Handling them unnecessarily

The axolotl is not an animal that should be handled. Its skin is thin, fragile, and sensitive. Taking it out of the water or holding it without a valid reason is a mistake that can cause stress, injuries, or even infections if its protective layer is damaged. If handling is truly necessary (tank change, health check), it should be done very carefully, using a net or wet hands, and for the shortest time possible.

Housing them with other species

Adding fish or other animals to an axolotl tank is rarely a good idea. Fish may nip at their gills, spread diseases, or get eaten. Likewise, axolotls may try to swallow anything that moves. It’s best to avoid cohabitation altogether, unless you are experienced and choose a compatible species—which is rare.

Ignoring signs of stress or illness

An axolotl that floats, has folded gills, swims frantically, or stops eating is trying to tell you something. Failing to notice these signs or waiting too long before acting is a common mistake. It’s better to consult an exotic pet veterinarian as soon as unusual symptoms appear.

Adding multiple axolotls too soon

Some enthusiasts want to keep several axolotls together. While this can work, you should not introduce them too young or in a tank that’s too small. Biting is common, especially between juveniles, and can cause serious injuries despite their ability to regenerate. You should also avoid mixing individuals of very different sizes.

Conclusion

Axolotls are hardy animals if their living conditions are respected, but they can be very sensitive to care mistakes, often made due to lack of information. Avoiding the mistakes listed above will give your axolotl a long, peaceful, and healthy life. Before adopting, it’s best to research thoroughly, set up a well-adapted aquarium, and remain attentive to their specific needs.