The Black Axolotl is a rare and beautiful amphibian. Many people call it the axolotl fish black because of its dark color and fish-like look. But it’s not a fish—it’s an aquatic salamander. These creatures stay in water for life. They are known for their cute faces and feathery gills. A Black Axolotl stands out because of its deep black skin, which can look even darker in certain lighting.
Caring for a black axolotl is simple with the right setup. The black axolotl’s needs include clean water, low temperatures, and the right food. Many new pet owners fall in love with the black axolotol’s calm nature. It’s also popular for its amazing healing powers. If you want a pet that’s quiet and fun to watch, this one is a great choice. In this guide, you’ll learn how to care for it and keep it happy.
Black Axolotl Overview
- Species Name: Ambystoma mexicanum
- Common Names: Black axolotl, Mexican walking fish
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Adult Size: 9–12 inches
- Care Level: Beginner-friendly
- Tank Size: 20 gallons+
- Water pH Level: 6.5–8.0
- Diet and Feeding: Carnivorous diet
What Is a Black Axolotl?
A Black Axolotl is a dark-colored type of Ambystoma mexicanum, also called the Mexican walking fish. It’s not really a fish, though. It’s an amphibian that stays in its aquatic larval form all its life.
The black color comes from special pigments. Some are born black, while others darken over time. People often confuse the term axolotl fish black with real fish, but this unique animal breathes through external gills and has tiny legs.
A black axolotl’s skin may look jet black, grayish, or even have shiny specks. This color helps it blend into darker tank setups. Its appearance makes it a favorite among exotic pet lovers worldwide.
Thanks to neoteny, the black axolotol keeps its baby features forever. That means it never becomes a land-dwelling adult. Instead, it grows and breeds while staying in water its whole life.
Unlike wild axolotls, black ones are mostly bred in captivity. They’re part of efforts to preserve the endangered species. Their popularity keeps growing because of their look, calm behavior, and unique care needs.
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Black Axolotl Appearance
The Black Axolotl has smooth, dark skin that can range from charcoal gray to deep black. Its body is slender with a wide head. External gills fan out like feathers, giving it a unique and almost alien look underwater.
Young black axolotls may appear lighter at first. As they age, their color darkens. Lighting and diet can also affect the tone of their skin. In dim tanks, their black tone looks more intense and striking, especially under LED lights.
They have lidless eyes and a permanent smile. Their faces often appear friendly or curious. The contrast of their black skin with pale pink or purple gills makes them eye-catching. This look adds to their popularity as pets.
Some black axolotls also have tiny golden specks on their skin. These aren’t always visible but sparkle slightly under certain lights. These features make them different from other axolotl morphs.
Because of their dramatic look, a black axolotl is often chosen for display tanks. People enjoy watching their slow, graceful movements. Their appearance is both calm and mysterious, which fascinates both kids and adults.
Black Axolotl Size
A full-grown Black Axolotl usually reaches about 9 to 12 inches in length. Some may stay smaller, around 6 inches, while rare ones can grow up to 14 inches. Their size depends on genetics, tank setup, and proper care.
The black axolotl’s body stays slim and soft, even as it grows. Males often grow slightly longer than females, but not by much. You’ll notice their long tails and wide heads, which help them move smoothly in water.
To support healthy growth, tank size matters. A 20-gallon tank is a good start for a black axolotl. Clean water, stable temperatures, and the right food help them grow at a safe pace. Growth is fastest in the first year.
Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to health issues. A balanced axolotl feeding schedule and live food for axolotls like brine shrimp or earthworms help maintain a healthy black axolotol size without stress.
Black Axolotl Temperament and Behavior
The Black Axolotl is calm and peaceful. It prefers a quiet tank without too much movement. These amphibians are not aggressive but can show cannibalistic tendencies if housed with smaller or younger axolotls. So, choose axolotl tank mates wisely.
A black axolotl spends most of its time resting or slowly swimming. It doesn’t like strong lights or fast currents. Using a low-flow filter helps keep them stress-free. They’re more active during the night and enjoy exploring their axolotl decorations.
They have unique axolotl hunting behavior. They use their sense of smell and motion to find food. Their axolotl feeding schedule should include live food like brine shrimp. Watching a black axolotl hunt is both fun and fascinating.
Handling causes axolotl handling stress. They prefer to be left alone in their tank. If needed, handle them gently. Their calm behavior makes them a great pet for people who enjoy observing rather than interacting.
Black Axolotl Lifespan and Common Diseases
The average lifespan of a black axolotl is 10 to 15 years. With proper care, they can live even longer. Clean water, the right diet, and low stress are key to helping your pet reach its full lifespan.
Poor water quality can shorten a black axolotl’s life. High ammonia levels or incorrect water temperature often cause stress and sickness. Using a water testing kit and keeping the tank clean helps prevent many health problems in axolotls.
One common disease is mycosis in axolotls. This fungal infection often appears on their skin or gills. It usually happens when the water is too warm or dirty. Quick treatment and cool, clean water can save your pet.
Axolotls are also at risk of impaction. This happens when they eat gravel or large food items. It can block their insides. Using soft substrate and feeding small, soft foods lowers this risk a lot.
Infections and vision problems can also affect black axolotls. Cloudy eyes or clumsy swimming may be signs of illness. Check for changes in behavior and act fast. Clean, cool water and isolation help with early recovery in many cases.
A healthy lifestyle helps avoid most diseases. Keep the tank stable, avoid rough handling, and watch feeding habits. Routine checks on your axolotl’s appearance and activity are the best way to catch problems early and ensure a long life.
Black Axolotl Care Guide
Caring for a Black Axolotl means keeping its water cool, clean, and safe. Use dechlorinated water and a sponge or low-flow filter to avoid stress. Keep ammonia levels low and the temperature between 60–64°F. A proper axolotl tank setup helps your pet live a long, healthy life.
Tank Setup
Setting up a home for your black axolotl starts with the right tank size. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum. Bigger is better, especially if you plan to keep more than one. Axolotls need plenty of space to swim comfortably.
Keep the water cool. The ideal axolotl temperature range is between 60–64°F. Use an aquarium chiller if your room gets too warm. Sudden heat can stress them. A sponge filter or low-flow filter is best, as strong currents bother them.
Use dechlorinated water only. Tap water has chlorine and harmful chemicals. Regular axolotl water testing kits help track ammonia levels, water pH level, and nitrates. Stable water quality prevents axolotl diseases and keeps them healthy.
Add safe axolotl substrate like fine sand or bare-bottom. Avoid gravel—it can cause axolotl impaction. Decorations should be smooth. Choose hiding spots like caves or plants. Avoid sharp edges that could hurt your black axolotl.
Keep the tank secure. A black axolotl may jump, especially if startled. To prevent this axolotl jump risk, always cover the tank. Regular axolotl tank cleaning and aquarium maintenance are essential for keeping their home safe and stress-free.
Water Parameters
Keeping the right water parameters is key to a healthy black axolotl. These amphibians need clean, stable water to survive. Poor water conditions can lead to stress and disease. Always test and adjust water regularly to avoid problems.
The ideal temperature range for a black axolotl is between 60–64°F (16–18°C). High temperatures can cause stress or even death. Use an aquarium chiller if your room gets warm. Always monitor the axolotl tank temperature closely.
Water pH level should stay between 6.5 and 8.0. A neutral pH is best. Use axolotl water testing kits to check this weekly. Sudden changes can harm your pet. Stable conditions help support the black axolotl’s long life.
Keep ammonia levels at zero. Ammonia burns their skin and gills. Use a low-flow filter or sponge filter to keep water clean. Clean the tank often and never skip axolotl tank cleaning days.
Always use dechlorinated water in the tank. Tap water with chlorine can damage the black axolotl’s sensitive skin and external gills. Add water conditioners when changing water. Proper care means checking and balancing all axolotl water parameters regularly.
Diet and Feeding
Black axolotls are carnivorous amphibians. They love eating protein-rich food. A healthy diet includes brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small pieces of earthworms. Live food for axolotls keeps them active and helps with their natural hunting behavior in the tank.
You should follow a regular axolotl feeding schedule. Juveniles eat daily, while adults need food 2–3 times a week. Overfeeding can lead to axolotl impaction and health issues. Always remove uneaten food to keep the tank clean and water safe.
The black axolotl’s diet should be varied. You can add pellets made for carnivorous amphibians too. Feed them with tongs or place food near them gently. Watch their appetite—if they stop eating, check for stress or disease.
Recommended Tankmates for Black Axolotls
Choosing the right tankmates for a Black Axolotl is important. These creatures are calm but can be aggressive if stressed or hungry. Always match their size and avoid fast or fin-nipping fish. Here are some safe and smart choices:
- White Cloud Mountain Minnows: These small, peaceful fish can tolerate cooler water, just like black axolotls. They’re fast enough to escape occasional hunting behavior. Still, monitor closely, as a hungry axolotl might go after them during feeding time.
- Apple Snails: These slow-moving snails are a good fit. They don’t bother axolotls and help keep the tank clean. Just make sure they’re too big to fit in the axolotl’s mouth to avoid impaction issues.
- Guppies: Guppies are another peaceful choice. They reproduce fast, so they can be a live food source, too. Still, make sure to control their numbers, as overpopulation can affect water quality and cause stress to your axolotl.
- Zebra Danios: These quick swimmers often stay near the top of the tank. They can live in cooler water, which suits a black axolotl. Just make sure the tank has enough space and hiding spots for all species to feel safe.
- Axolotl larvae: If you’re breeding axolotls, keep the babies together in a separate tank. Avoid mixing larvae with adults, as they might be seen as food. Axolotl breeding requires careful monitoring and proper feeding schedules to ensure healthy growth.
Breeding Black Axolotls
Breeding black axolotls takes planning and patience. You’ll need a healthy male and female pair. Keep them in good condition with a proper axolotl diet. It’s best to wait until both are at least 12 months old.
During breeding, males drop sperm cones, which females pick up. This triggers egg laying. You might notice changes in axolotl behavior, such as increased movement or nudging. Make sure the axolotl tank setup stays clean and stable during this time.
The female can lay hundreds of axolotl eggs. Move the eggs to a separate tank to protect them. Keep water cool and clean. Axolotl larvae hatch within two weeks and begin feeding on brine shrimp or other live food for axolotls.
Watch for cannibalistic tendencies in young axolotls. Separate them by size to avoid injury. With the right care, axolotl reproduction can be safe and rewarding for both new and experienced keepers.
Legalities of Owning a Black Axolotl
Owning a Black Axolotl isn’t legal everywhere. In the U.S., some states like California, New Jersey, and Maine ban axolotls completely. These laws aim to protect native ecosystems from potential release or crossbreeding with local amphibians.
States that do allow them often have rules. For example, New Mexico lets you keep axolotls but not import them. Always check with local wildlife or fish and game departments before buying. Ignoring laws can lead to fines or pet confiscation.
Internationally, rules vary too. In Canada and the UK, owning axolotls is legal, but breeders may need a license. Since axolotls are listed as an endangered species, international trade is controlled by CITES regulations to prevent wild population decline.
If you plan to travel or move, research in advance. Some airports and borders won’t allow exotic pets like black axolotls without paperwork. Responsible ownership means understanding and following the legal requirements carefully.
How Much Does a Black Axolotl Cost?
Buying a black axolotl isn’t too expensive, but prices can vary. On average, you can expect to pay between $40 and $80 for a healthy one. Rare shades or patterns may cost more depending on demand and breeder reputation.
Special morphs like melanoid or rare deep-black axolotls can go up to $100 or more. These darker ones are often called axolotl fish black or black axolotol in online listings. Always buy from a trusted breeder to avoid health issues.
The black axolotl’s cost doesn’t stop at purchase. You’ll also need to budget for a tank, filter, chiller, and food. A proper setup can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the equipment you choose.
Shipping fees may also apply if you order a black axolotl online. Sellers use special containers and overnight shipping to keep the amphibian safe. Expect to pay around $30–$60 extra for delivery.
Some states or countries may have laws about owning black axolotls. Always check the axolotl pet laws in your area. In some places, permits are required due to their status as an endangered species.
FAQ’S
What is the lifespan of a black aquatic salamander?
The Black Axolotl can live up to 15 years with proper care, a clean tank, and stable water temperature.
Can I handle my dark-colored amphibian pet often?
It’s best not to touch a Black Axolotl often, as they have sensitive skin and handling can cause stress or injury.
What should I feed my dark axolotl pet?
A Black Axolotl enjoys live food like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small feeder fish, but pellets and frozen food also work well.
Do these dark axolotls need a water filter?
Yes, a low-flow filter helps keep your Black Axolotl tank clean without creating strong currents that stress them out.
How big does this black aquatic pet get?
A healthy Black Axolotl can grow up to 10 inches long and needs enough tank space to move and rest comfortably.
Conclusion
The Black Axolotl is a calm, eye-catching pet that’s easy to care for. Its dark color, soft body, and external gills make it unique. Many people call it an axolotl fish black, but it’s really a type of aquatic salamander. With the right care, this creature lives a long and healthy life. Just give it clean water, proper food, and the right tank setup. Keep an eye on axolotl temperature range, water quality, and use dechlorinated water to avoid stress and sickness.
Use a sponge filter or low-flow filter to protect its delicate body. A steady axolotl feeding schedule with live food for axolotls keeps it active and happy. Don’t forget about aquarium maintenance and checking ammonia levels. Avoid sharp axolotl decorations and choose the right axolotl substrate. Watch out for problems like axolotl impaction and mycosis in axolotls. With love and care, your black axolotol will thrive for years.
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