When I think of the tiger salamander-like axolotl (pronounced ax-oh-lot-ul), Ambystoma mexicanum, my mind drifts back to the 1960s and rather than the genetic oddities of today, it is images of albinos, leucistics, and normals that I first picture. In those days there were few breeders of this salamander, with the primary source being the research colony at Indiana University.



The species is now apparently known primarily (if not exclusively) from the Chalco wetlands region south of Mexico City where the wild examples are now at least marginally protected.

The axolotl is a neotenic (paedomorphic/perennibranchiate) salamander. Simply stated, it is a salamander that rarely metamorphoses, and is capable of attaining sexual maturity while in its larval state. As a larva, the axolotl retains its 3 pairs of bushy gills, has non-protuberant, lidless eyes, and has a noticeable vertebral fin and pronounced caudal fins.

Dermal glands of this aquatic salamander also differ from those of the rare terrestrial adults. Adult size is normally between 8 and 11 inches, but 12 inch long examples have been seen. Appendages such as feet, legs, and tail parts, can be regenerated if lost or damaged.

Hatchling and juvenile axolotls can be (and often are) cannibalistic and are best kept singly, but subadults and adults are relatively peaceful. A 2-gallon aquarium is large enough for an adult and as long as the water is kept clean (changed every day or two), filtration is neither needed nor preferred. Chloramines and chlorine should be removed from the axolotl's water.

Today, axolotls of many colors (several albino forms including the very beautiful gold albino, normal, melanic, piebald, and leucistic, GFP varieties that glow under black lights, and other genetic colors) are readily and inexpensively available. This morning I noticed axolotls of most colors and sizes being advertised on Kingsnake.com. No longer are hobbyists restricted to a single source.

For more information, I suggest that you peruse Susan T. Duhon's paper, Short Guide to Axolotl Husbandry. This helpful and easily understood paper may currently be found online here.

More photos below...