Axolotls - Biology Biology of Axolotls The Axolotl is unusual in nature because it retains its larval form into adulthood In fact, it becomes sexually mature in this state This adaptation, known as neoteny, is often viewed as a backward step in evolution because it prevents the axolotl from living on land, and as a result, it can't colonise new habitats
Axolotls - Feeding When an axolotl wants to eat something, it opens its mouth suddenly and water rushes in, along with the food or anything else around (such as parts of other axolotls, or pieces of gravel) This vacuum action often results in a sudden lurch of the axolotl up into the water and then the animal settles down again Axolotls will eat live or dead food
Genetics and Colour - Axolotl Genetics and Colour Overview The Axolotl is studied the world over for several reasons All of the traits which make it so suitable for study, as for all living things, are dependent upon its genes This page will attempt to give a brief overview of axolotl genetics, mainly from the viewpoint of the hobbyist, who tends to be most interested in
Axolotls - Requirements Water Conditions in Captivity Overview Water quality is an important factor in the health of the Axolotl They are forgiving animals, but the correct care of axolotls in captivity is only possible under the right water conditions Coupled with water conditions, we must also exercise caution when considering what to put in the water, be it ornaments or other tank mates Topics covered on this page: Other Tank Inmates
Axolotls - Frequently Asked Questions The axolotl is an endangered species in the wild, but vast numbers are bred in captivity each year for scientific research and the pet trade As long as you acquired your axolotl in your own country from a dealer who has followed the required procedures, you don't have to worry about the treaty
Books and Links - Axolotl This book begins by describing the Axolotl's obscure name and significance and goes on to cover its feeding, housing, breeding, genetics, and diseases If you own an Axolotl as a pet, this is the book for you The first edition was hardbacked, and though well illustrated, many of the photos were poorly printed and obscure
Embryo Photo Log - Axolotl Introduction In the late 90s I bred axolotls for the first time This page presents a daily photographic log of the development of the eggs laid by a female melanoid albino (fathered by a golden albino which carried the melanoid gene), from the day of laying to the day of hatching The eggs are white due to the mother being an albino (normal axolotl eggs are dark brown) They were removed from
Axolotls - Rearing from Egg to Adult Axolotl larvae are surprisingly tough, as far as newt and salamander larvae go By the way, "larvae" is the plural of larva, the term used to describe axolotls (and other newts and salamanders) that have yet to develop all four legs
Axolotls - Health Diseases Please note well: Aquarium fish remedies can be toxic to axolotls and it is inadvisable to use them without first consulting an expert Amphibians absorb chemicals very easily through their skin and it is quite easy to accidentally poison your axolotls with remedies For example, Sterazin and Protozin from Aqualife are toxic to axolotls Anything containing metals such as copper or manganese