Axolotl's Diet Guide: What Does Axolotl Eat and How to Feed Them?

Axolotls are fascinating creatures that have become increasingly popular as pets in recent years. These amphibians are native to Mexico, and they are famous for their ability to regenerate lost body parts, including limbs and even parts of their brains. However, when it comes to their diet, many people are still unsure of what axolotls eat. In this article, we will explore the dietary needs of axolotls and provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to feed your pet axolotl.

What is an Axolotl?

Axolotls are amphibians that belong to the family Ambystomatidae. They are often referred to as Mexican walking fish, but they are not fish at all. They are amphibians, which means that they are cold-blooded and have porous skin that allows them to absorb oxygen from the water. Axolotls are native to Mexico, where they were once abundant in the wild. However, their populations have declined significantly in recent years due to habitat loss and pollution.

What Do Axolotls Eat in the Wild?

Axolotls are carnivorous, which means that they eat meat. In the wild, their diet consists mainly of small fish, insects, crustaceans, and worms. They are also known to eat other amphibians, including their kind. Axolotls are ambush predators, which means that they wait for their prey to come close before they attack. They have a remarkable ability to regenerate lost body parts, which comes in handy when they are attacked by predators.

What Do Pet Axolotls Eat?

If you are considering keeping an axolotl as a pet, it is essential to understand its dietary needs. Feeding your axolotl the right diet is essential for its health and well-being. In captivity, axolotls should be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. The ideal diet for pet axolotls consists of a variety of live or frozen foods.

Live Foods:

Axolotls prefer live food over frozen food, so it is best to provide them with a diet that includes a variety of live foods. Some of the best live foods for axolotls include:

1. Bloodworms - Bloodworms are small, red worms that are an excellent source of protein for axolotls.
2. Blackworms - Blackworms are a type of aquatic worm that is high in protein and low in fat. They are an excellent food source for axolotls.
3. Brine shrimp - Brine shrimp are tiny crustaceans that are high in protein and are a favorite food of axolotls.
4. Daphnia - Daphnia are small, freshwater crustaceans that are high in protein and are an excellent food source for axolotls.

Frozen Foods:

Frozen foods are a convenient alternative to live foods, especially if you are unable to find live food in your local pet store. Frozen foods are also more convenient for pet owners who do not have the time to care for live food. Some of the best-frozen foods for axolotls include:

1. Bloodworms - Frozen bloodworms are a convenient alternative to live bloodworms.
2. Brine shrimp - Frozen brine shrimp are an excellent source of protein for axolotls.
3. Krill - Frozen krill is a type of shrimp that is high in protein and is a favorite food of axolotls.
4. Mysis shrimp - Mysis shrimp are small, freshwater shrimp that are an excellent food source for axolotls.

Commercial Foods:

If you are unable to find live or frozen food in your local pet store, there are a variety of commercially available foods that are specifically formulated for axolotls. These foods are convenient and easy to store, and they provide a balanced diet for your pet axolotl. When choosing commercial foods for your axolotl, it is important to look for products that are high in protein and low in fat. Some of the best commercial foods for axolotls include:

1. Pellets - Pellets are a convenient and easy way to feed your axolotl. They come in different sizes and are specifically formulated for axolotls.
2. Flakes - Flakes are another convenient way to feed your axolotl. They are easy to store and come in different flavors and sizes.
3. Frozen foods - Some companies offer frozen foods that are specifically formulated for axolotls. These foods are high in protein and low in fat, making them an excellent choice for your pet axolotl.
4. Insect-based foods - Some commercial foods are made from insects such as crickets and mealworms. These foods are high in protein and are a good alternative to traditional food sources.

Feeding Schedule:

Axolotls should be fed once a day, and it is best to feed them in the evening or at night. This is because axolotls are nocturnal creatures and are most active at night. You should only feed your axolotl the amount of food it can eat in one sitting. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and health problems.

It is also important to note that axolotls have a slow metabolism, which means that they do not require a lot of food. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause health problems for your axolotl.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, axolotls are fascinating creatures that require a specific diet to thrive. Their diet should consist of live or frozen foods that are high in protein and low in fat. Commercially available foods can also provide a balanced diet for your pet axolotl. It is important to feed your axolotl once a day and only the amount of food it can eat in one sitting. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your pet axolotl is healthy and happy.