Axolotl Appetite: A Deep Dive into What These Amphibians Can and Cannot Eat

So, you’re thinking about getting an axolotl, or maybe you already have one and you’re wondering if you’re feeding it right. Excellent! Understanding your axolotl’s dietary needs is crucial for its health and happiness. Let’s cut to the chase: axolotls are carnivores, with a diet primarily consisting of worms, insects, and sometimes small fish. They’re not picky eaters – they will gobble up pretty much anything that fits in their mouths. However, just because they can eat something, doesn’t mean they should.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the menu – and what should absolutely be avoided.

What Axolotls Can Eat: A Comprehensive Guide

The Staples:

• Worms: These are the cornerstone of a healthy axolotl diet.

  • Nightcrawlers: Earthworms, chopped to an appropriate size, are a fantastic source of protein. This should be a staple for adult axolotls.
  • California Blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus): These are great for juveniles and smaller axolotls due to their size.
  • Red Wigglers: While nutritious, red wigglers have a bitter taste that many axolotls dislike. If your axolotl refuses them, don’t force the issue.

• Insects: A good supplement to worms, but not a replacement.

  • Bloodworms: A common and readily available option, often sold frozen. They are more of a treat and supplement, rather than the main course.
  • Daphnia: These tiny crustaceans can be fed live or frozen and are a good source of nutrients.
  • Brine Shrimp: Similar to Daphnia, brine shrimp are a decent treat, especially for younger axolotls.

• Pellets: Use sparingly!

  • Axolotl-Specific Pellets: These are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of axolotls, but should only be fed occasionally due to their high protein content. Overfeeding pellets can lead to obesity. Sinking pellets are preferred since axolotls are bottom feeders.

Occasional Treats (in moderation!):

• Ghost Shrimp: Can be offered, but be sure they come from a reputable source to avoid introducing parasites.
• Small Pieces of Raw Beef Heart: A very high-protein treat, only given in small amounts infrequently.
• Salmon Pellets: In laboratory settings, axolotls are fed salmon pellets. Use sparingly if at all.

What Axolotls Cannot Eat: The No-Go Zone

• Feeder Fish: This is a hard no. Fish can transmit parasites and diseases that are detrimental to axolotl health. Goldfish, in particular, contain thiaminase, an enzyme that inhibits thiamine absorption in axolotls, leading to serious health problems. Guppies are known to have made axolotls very sick.
• Gravel: This isn’t food, of course, but it’s worth mentioning because axolotls often ingest gravel while feeding. This can lead to impaction, which is a blockage in the digestive system that can be fatal. Stick to a bare-bottom tank or use sand (fine enough to pass if ingested).
• Processed Foods: Anything intended for human consumption is a bad idea. Axolotls cannot digest the additives, preservatives, and spices in processed foods.
• Large Chunks of Meat: Axolotls have rudimentary teeth designed for gripping, not tearing. They swallow their food whole. Large chunks can cause choking or digestive problems.
• Floating Food: While not toxic, floating food is impractical. Axolotls are bottom feeders, so they will struggle to eat food that stays on the surface.
• Insects from the Wild: While the idea of catching your own insects might seem appealing, wild insects can carry pesticides or parasites that are harmful to your axolotl. Stick to commercially raised insects from a reputable source.

Water Quality: Essential for a Healthy Diet

The quality of your axolotl’s water is just as important as the food you provide.

• Chlorine and Chloramine: These are toxic to axolotls. Always use a dechlorinator or let tap water sit for 24 hours before adding it to the tank to allow the chlorine to dissipate. If your water contains chloramine, a dechlorinator is essential.
• Bottled Water: Axolotls need the minerals that are found in natural water and include sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and others. Bottled water is typically spring water that is treated but then has these natural minerals and salts added in.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Size

• Juvenile Axolotls: Need to be fed daily due to their rapid growth.
• Adult Axolotls: Can be fed every other day or every three days.
• Portion Size: Give them as much as they can eat in a few minutes. Remove any uneaten food to prevent water contamination.

Observing Your Axolotl’s Behavior

Pay close attention to your axolotl’s eating habits. If it refuses to eat, it could be a sign of illness, poor water quality, or stress. Consult with a veterinarian specializing in amphibians if you have any concerns.

Understanding your axolotl’s dietary needs is essential for its well-being. By providing a balanced diet of worms, insects, and occasional treats, while avoiding harmful foods and maintaining excellent water quality, you can ensure that your axolotl lives a long and healthy life. The Games Learning Society, a group studying digital media and learning at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, also advocates for education and understanding in various fields. You can learn more about them at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I feed my axolotl goldfish?

Absolutely not! Goldfish contain thiaminase, an enzyme that inhibits thiamine absorption, leading to serious health problems. Feeder fish in general should be avoided as they can transmit parasites and diseases.

2. My axolotl won’t eat. What should I do?

Several factors could be at play. Check the water parameters (temperature, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate) to ensure they are within the acceptable range. Try offering different types of food. If the problem persists, consult a veterinarian specializing in amphibians.

3. How often should I feed my axolotl?

Juvenile axolotls should be fed daily, while adult axolotls can be fed every other day or every three days.

4. What’s the best way to chop up earthworms for my axolotl?

Use clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut the earthworm into appropriately sized pieces. The size will depend on the size of your axolotl.

5. Can I feed my axolotl food that’s been sitting out for a while?

No. Only offer fresh or freshly thawed food. Food that has been sitting out can harbor bacteria and make your axolotl sick.

6. Are axolotl pellets a good primary food source?

No. Axolotl pellets are high in protein and should only be fed occasionally as a supplement to a diet of worms and insects.

7. Can I use tap water in my axolotl’s tank?

Yes, but only after removing the chlorine and chloramine. Use a dechlorinator or let the water sit for 24 hours.

8. What size of earthworm should I feed my axolotl?

The size depends on your axolotl. Start with small pieces and gradually increase the size as your axolotl grows.

9. Is it okay to leave uneaten food in the tank?

No. Uneaten food will decompose and contaminate the water, leading to poor water quality. Remove any uneaten food after a few minutes.

10. Can I feed my axolotl live insects from my backyard?

It’s best to avoid this. Wild insects can carry pesticides or parasites that are harmful to your axolotl.

11. My axolotl ate some gravel. What should I do?

Monitor your axolotl closely for signs of impaction, such as bloating or constipation. If you suspect impaction, consult a veterinarian. Ideally, remove any gravel from the tank altogether.

12. Can I give my axolotl mealworms?

Mealworms are not a good primary food source. They have a hard exoskeleton that can be difficult for axolotls to digest.

13. Do axolotls need salt in their water?

Axolotls do not need salt in their water.

14. Is it safe to hand-feed my axolotl?

Yes, but make sure your hands are clean and free of any soap or lotions. Be gentle to avoid startling or injuring your axolotl.

15. What is the best water temperature for axolotls?

The ideal water temperature for axolotls is between 60-68°F (16-20°C). Higher temperatures can stress them and make them more susceptible to illness.