How To Feed An Axolotl – Your Ultimate Guide To A Healthy, Happy Pet

Written ByHoward Parker

So, you’ve brought home one of the most unique and charming aquatic pets out there: an axolotl! Congratulations! These incredible salamanders, with their perpetual smiles and feathery gills, are truly captivating. But as any new pet parent knows, one of the biggest questions that immediately comes to mind is, “How to feed an axolotl properly?”

Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Many new axolotl owners feel a little overwhelmed by their pet’s dietary needs, wondering about the right foods, feeding schedules, and how to keep their aquatic friend thriving. It’s a common concern, but with the right knowledge, feeding your axolotl will become second nature.

Here at Aquifarm, we’ve helped countless enthusiasts like you master the art of axolotl care. We understand that you want the best for your unique companion. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about feeding your axolotl, from understanding their natural diet to advanced tips and troubleshooting common issues. By the end, you’ll be an expert, ensuring your axolotl enjoys a long, healthy, and happy life. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Your Axolotl’s Diet: What Do They Eat?

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, are fascinating creatures. In their natural habitat, these unique amphibians are opportunistic carnivores. This means they’re not picky; they’ll eat almost anything that fits into their mouth and is digestible!

Their diet primarily consists of worms, insect larvae, small crustaceans, and even tiny fish. Mimicking this natural diet as closely as possible is key to providing optimal nutrition for your pet. This approach is fundamental to any comprehensive how to feed an axolotl care guide.

Remember, they don’t have teeth for chewing; instead, they use a suction method to gulp down their prey whole. This is an important detail to consider when choosing food items, as they need to be small enough to be swallowed easily.

The Carnivorous Nature of Axolotls

It’s crucial to understand that axolotls require a diet rich in protein. Unlike some other aquatic pets, they cannot digest plant matter effectively. Their digestive system is designed for meat, so their food sources must reflect this.

Providing a balanced, protein-rich diet is one of the most significant benefits of how to feed an axolotl correctly. It directly impacts their growth, vibrant coloration, immune system strength, and overall longevity.

The Best Foods for Your Axolotl: A Comprehensive List

When it comes to selecting food, variety is the spice of life for your axolotl. Offering a range of appropriate foods ensures they receive all necessary nutrients and prevents them from becoming finicky eaters. Here are some top recommendations, adhering to how to feed an axolotl best practices:

Primary Staple Foods

These should form the bulk of your axolotl’s diet due to their excellent nutritional profile and ease of feeding.

  • Earthworms (Nightcrawlers, Red Wigglers): These are often considered the gold standard for axolotl nutrition. They are complete, balanced, and eagerly accepted. Purchase them from reputable bait shops or cultivate your own chemical-free supply. Chop larger worms into bite-sized pieces for smaller axolotls.
  • High-Quality Sinking Pellets: Specifically formulated axolotl pellets or salmon pellets are a convenient and nutritious option. Look for brands with a high protein content (over 40%) and low fillers. These are great for daily feeding, especially for adult axolotls.

Supplemental & Treat Foods

These can be offered occasionally to add variety and extra nutrients.

  • Bloodworms (Frozen or Live): A favorite treat, especially for juvenile axolotls due to their small size. They are highly palatable but should not be a primary food source as they lack some essential nutrients for adults.
  • Brine Shrimp (Frozen or Live): Excellent for very young axolotls (larvae) or as an occasional treat for older ones. Like bloodworms, they aren’t nutritionally complete enough for a staple diet.
  • Daphnia (Live): Another good option for young axolotls and a fun live hunt for adults.
  • Ghost Shrimp (Live): Small, live ghost shrimp can provide an exciting hunting experience and good nutrition. Ensure they are disease-free and appropriately sized.
  • Blackworms (Live): Highly nutritious and enjoyed by axolotls of all ages. They are small and can be fed in larger quantities.

Foods to Avoid Entirely

Some foods commonly fed to other pets are harmful to axolotls:

  • Feeder Fish: While axolotls might eat them, feeder fish often carry parasites and diseases that can be passed to your axolotl. They also tend to be nutritionally poor. Avoid them.
  • Mammalian Meat (e.g., Chicken, Beef): These are too fatty and difficult for axolotls to digest, leading to digestive issues and potential health problems.
  • Insects from Your Garden: Wild insects can carry pesticides or parasites. Stick to commercially raised or safely sourced options.
  • Cooked Foods: Axolotls require raw, unprocessed foods.

How to Feed an Axolotl: Step-by-Step Techniques

Now that you know what to feed them, let’s talk about how to feed an axolotl. The method you use can significantly impact your axolotl’s health and the cleanliness of your tank. These how to feed an axolotl tips will make feeding time a breeze!

Method 1: Tongs or Forceps

This is arguably the best and cleanest method, especially for earthworms or pellets.

  1. Prepare the Food: If using earthworms, chop them into appropriate sizes for your axolotl. For pellets, you can soak them briefly in tank water to soften them.
  2. Present the Food: Gently hold the food with a pair of long, blunt-tipped tongs or forceps.
  3. Offer to Your Axolotl: Slowly lower the food towards your axolotl’s mouth. Many axolotls will readily snap at food presented this way. If they don’t respond immediately, you can gently tap the food against their snout or the substrate near them to get their attention.
  4. Remove Uneaten Food: This is the critical step. After your axolotl has eaten, use the tongs or a turkey baster to remove any uneaten food immediately. This prevents water fouling.

Method 2: Dropping Food into the Tank

This method is more suitable for sinking pellets or live foods like blackworms.

  1. Targeted Placement: Drop pellets directly in front of your axolotl, allowing them to sink. For live worms, you can gently release them into the tank.
  2. Observe: Watch to ensure your axolotl finds and consumes the food.
  3. Clean Up: Promptly remove any uneaten pellets or dead live food within 15-30 minutes to maintain water quality. A turkey baster is perfect for this.

Considerations for Feeding

  • Substrate Safety: If you have a bare-bottom tank, feeding is straightforward. If you use sand (only for axolotls over 6 inches!), be careful not to drop food directly onto the sand, as your axolotl might ingest sand while feeding, potentially leading to impaction.
  • Water Quality: Always feed in a clean tank. Poor water quality can stress your axolotl and reduce its appetite.
  • Patience: Some axolotls are shy eaters, especially when new to an environment or type of food. Be patient and consistent.

Feeding Schedules and Portions: Getting It Just Right

Knowing how to feed an axolotl isn’t just about what to offer, but also how often and how much. The age and size of your axolotl play a significant role in determining its feeding frequency and portion sizes.

Juvenile Axolotls (Under 6 inches)

Young axolotls are growing rapidly and have higher metabolic rates. They need more frequent meals.

  • Frequency: Feed once a day, sometimes even twice for very young, rapidly growing individuals.
  • Portion: Offer as much as they will eat in about 10-15 minutes. This might be 2-3 small chopped earthworm pieces or a small pinch of bloodworms/pellets. Always remove uneaten food.
  • Food Size: Food items should be small enough to be easily swallowed without choking.

Adult Axolotls (Over 6 inches)

Adults have slower metabolisms and don’t need to eat as often.

  • Frequency: Typically, 2-3 times per week is sufficient. Some healthy, well-fed adults can even go a bit longer between meals.
  • Portion: Feed 1-2 large earthworms (e.g., nightcrawlers) or 5-10 high-quality sinking pellets per feeding session. The general rule is to feed until their belly is slightly rounded, but not bulging.
  • Observation is Key: Pay attention to your axolotl’s body condition. If they look too thin, increase feeding slightly. If they look bloated, reduce it.

Factors Affecting Appetite

  • Water Temperature: Axolotls are cold-water creatures. If the water is too warm (above 70°F or 21°C), their metabolism slows down, and they may refuse to eat. Optimal temperatures are usually 60-68°F (16-20°C).
  • Stress: New environments, poor water quality, or tank mates can cause stress and a loss of appetite.
  • Illness: A sudden refusal to eat can be a sign of illness. Observe for other symptoms.

Common Feeding Problems and Solutions

Even with the best intentions, you might encounter a few hiccups when feeding your axolotl. Knowing how to address these common problems with how to feed an axolotl is part of being an experienced aquarist.

Problem 1: Axolotl Refuses to Eat

This is a common concern for many owners.

  • Check Water Parameters: The most frequent culprit is poor water quality (high ammonia, nitrites, or nitrates). Perform a water test immediately.
  • Check Temperature: Ensure the water is within the optimal range (60-68°F or 16-20°C).
  • Stress: Is anything new or disturbing in the tank? Are there strong lights or vibrations?
  • Food Variety: Try offering a different type of food. Sometimes they just get bored!
  • Health Check: Look for any signs of illness (fungus, redness, lethargy). If other symptoms are present, consult a vet.
  • Patience: Sometimes they just aren’t hungry. A healthy adult axolotl can go a week or two without food without serious issues. Don’t force-feed.

Problem 2: Regurgitation After Eating

If your axolotl eats but then spits up its food, it’s a clear sign something is wrong.

  • Food Size: The food might be too large. Chop worms into smaller pieces.
  • Overfeeding: You might be offering too much food at once. Reduce the portion size.
  • Stress/Illness: As with refusal to eat, check water parameters, temperature, and for any signs of illness.

Problem 3: Uneaten Food Fouling the Tank

This is a major concern as it directly impacts water quality.

  • Immediate Removal: Always remove uneaten food within 15-30 minutes using tongs or a turkey baster.
  • Reduce Portion Size: If you consistently have a lot of leftover food, you’re likely overfeeding.
  • Targeted Feeding: Use tongs to feed directly to your axolotl, minimizing the chance of food being missed.

Ensuring a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Diet

As responsible pet owners, we should always consider the environmental impact of our choices. When it comes to sustainable how to feed an axolotl practices, a few considerations stand out.

Choosing your axolotl’s food wisely can contribute to a healthier planet. This is part of being an eco-friendly how to feed an axolotl enthusiast.

  • Source Locally: Whenever possible, source live foods like earthworms from local, reputable suppliers or even raise them yourself. This reduces transportation costs and carbon footprint.
  • Avoid Wild-Caught Feeder Fish: As mentioned, feeder fish are often problematic for axolotls. But beyond health risks, their capture can sometimes impact local ecosystems. Stick to captive-bred alternatives or other protein sources.
  • Research Pellets: Look for pellet brands that prioritize sustainable sourcing of their ingredients, especially fishmeal. Some companies are more transparent about their practices than others.
  • Reduce Waste: Only feed what your axolotl will eat. Promptly removing uneaten food not only keeps your tank clean but also minimizes food waste.

The Benefits of Proper Axolotl Nutrition

Providing the right diet is more than just keeping your axolotl alive; it’s about helping them thrive. There are numerous benefits of how to feed an axolotl correctly, impacting every aspect of their well-being.

  • Vibrant Coloration: A balanced diet ensures your axolotl displays its natural, beautiful colors to their fullest potential. Dull colors can sometimes indicate nutritional deficiencies.
  • Robust Growth: Especially for juveniles, proper nutrition is vital for healthy and consistent growth, helping them reach their full adult size.
  • Strong Immune System: A well-fed axolotl is better equipped to fight off diseases and infections, leading to fewer health issues over their lifespan.
  • Increased Longevity: A consistent, appropriate diet contributes significantly to a longer, healthier life for your pet, potentially allowing them to live for 10-15 years or more.
  • Active and Engaged Behavior: Axolotls that are well-nourished are typically more active and show more natural behaviors, making them even more enjoyable to observe.
  • Healthy Gills and Skin: The quality of their food directly impacts the health of their delicate gills and skin, which are vital for their respiration and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Feeding Axolotls

Let’s address some common queries that often pop up when learning how to feed an axolotl.

Can I feed my axolotl crickets or other insects?

While axolotls can technically eat crickets, they are not ideal. Crickets have a hard exoskeleton that can be difficult for axolotls to digest and may lead to impaction. If you do offer insects, ensure they are soft-bodied and captive-bred to avoid parasites or pesticides. Earthworms and bloodworms are much safer and more nutritious options.

How long can an axolotl go without food?

A healthy adult axolotl can comfortably go for a week or two without food, especially if the water temperature is on the cooler side. Juveniles, however, should not go more than a couple of days. If your axolotl is refusing food for an extended period, it’s usually a sign of an underlying issue like poor water quality or illness.

Do axolotls need vitamins or supplements?

If you are feeding a varied diet of high-quality staple foods like earthworms and good sinking pellets, your axolotl should receive all the necessary nutrients. Supplements are generally not needed and can sometimes cause harm if overdone. Focus on diversity and quality in their primary diet.

What should I do if my axolotl is bloated after eating?

If your axolotl appears bloated, it could be due to overfeeding or impaction (often from ingesting substrate). First, reduce the amount of food you’re offering at the next feeding. Ensure your tank’s water parameters are perfect. If bloating persists or is accompanied by other signs of distress, consider giving your axolotl a “tea bath” (using black tea to help with slime coat and mild antiseptic properties) and consult an amphibian-savvy vet.

Can axolotls eat fish flakes?

No, axolotls should not eat fish flakes. Fish flakes are formulated for fish, not amphibians, and often contain vegetable matter and fillers that axolotls cannot digest properly. They lack the high protein and specific nutrient profile an axolotl needs.

Conclusion: Happy Axolotls, Happy Aquarists!

Mastering how to feed an axolotl is one of the most rewarding aspects of keeping these incredible creatures. By understanding their carnivorous nature, offering a diverse diet of appropriate foods, and maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, you’re laying the foundation for a truly happy and healthy pet.

Remember, observation is your best tool. Pay attention to your axolotl’s appetite, body condition, and overall behavior. By being proactive and addressing any feeding issues promptly, you’ll ensure your axolotl thrives for years to come.

Here at Aquifarm, we believe every aquarist can achieve success. With these how to feed an axolotl guide insights and your dedication, you’re well on your way to becoming an expert axolotl parent. Keep up the great work, and enjoy the unique companionship of your amazing amphibian!

Howard Parker
Latest posts by Howard Parker (see all)