Feeding axolotls properly: what, how much and how often

Axolotls are carnivores and will eat almost anything that moves and fits in their mouth. That is exactly why it pays to feed them thoughtfully. A varied diet that is not too generous keeps the animals healthy and the water clean.

Suitable food

• Special axolotl food: sinking pellets or sticks designed for axolotls make a good staple diet.
• Earthworms: considered a very valuable food. Only use worms from a safe source, free of fertiliser and pesticides.
• Frozen food: bloodworms, brine shrimp or mysis are a good supplement, but not as the sole diet for adults.

Better to avoid

• Live feeder fish: they can introduce diseases and parasites.
• Food with a hard chitin shell such as mealworms: it is hard to digest.
• Meat from mammals or poultry: it pollutes the water and does not meet their nutritional needs.
• Pieces that are too large: as a rule of thumb, a piece of food should be no larger than the distance between the eyes.

How often?

Juveniles grow quickly and are usually fed every day. Adult axolotls need much less: two to three feedings a week are usually enough. A well-fed axolotl has a belly roughly as wide as its head.

How to feed

The easiest way is with feeding tongs or a small feeding dish. That way you can see exactly how much is eaten, and the food does not spread through the whole tank. Remove leftovers after about half an hour so the water is not burdened unnecessarily.

When an axolotl won’t eat

One or two missed meals are usually no cause for concern. Common causes are water that is too warm, poor water quality or stress after a move. Check the temperature and nitrite first. If an animal does not eat for a longer period or shows other unusual signs, see a vet experienced with amphibians.

Our range of axolotl food is in the Food category, with suitable tongs and feeding dishes under Accessories.