Axolotl

Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum

Also known as: Mexican Walking Fish

💧 Freshwater ✌️ Peaceful 🟡 Moderate 🥩 Carnivore

Not a fish — a neotenic salamander that stays aquatic its entire life. Feathery external gills and a permanent smile.

Tank Size

20 gal
minimum (40+ preferred)

Temperature

60–68°F
16–20°C

pH Range

6.5–8
water acidity

Max Size

12"
30.5 cm

Lifespan

10–15 years
typical in captivity

Swim Level

Bottom
preferred zone

Care Notes

Needs cold water (60-68°F). NO gravel substrate (they eat it and get impacted). Best kept alone or with other axolotls.

Feeding

Earthworms (staple food), frozen bloodworms, and sinking pellets.

Compatible Tank Mates

Dojo Loach 10" Common Goldfish 12" Fancy Goldfish 8"

Use Caution With

None identified.

Incompatible With

Neon Tetra 1.5" Cardinal Tetra 2" Rummy Nose Tetra 2" Ember Tetra 0.8" Black Skirt Tetra 2.5" Serpae Tetra 1.75" Congo Tetra 3.5" Glowlight Tetra 1.5" Harlequin Rasbora 2" Chili Rasbora 0.7" Celestial Pearl Danio 1" Zebra Danio 2"

Check Compatibility

Want to check if Axolotl is compatible with a specific fish? Use our compatibility checker to build your complete tank.