Axolotl

Ambystoma mexicanum

Also known as: Mexican Walking Fish, Mexican Salamander

A permanently aquatic salamander with feathery gills and a permanent smile.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

60–66°F

pH

6.5–8

Hardness

7–14 dGH

Max size

10 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Solitary

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

10-15 years

Breeding

Egg-depositor

Suitability

Intermediate

Origin

Lake Xochimilco, Mexico City, Mexico

An amphibian, not a fish, and it cannot live with fish: fish nip its gills and it eats anything that fits in its mouth. Keep it cool, never above about 70F, over fine sand or bare bottom, with gentle flow. Feed worms and pellets.