Axolotl Habitat: Where Do Axolotls Live?

The axolotl is a creature that not only captivates scientists but also pet lovers. It is known by the nickname “Mexican walking fish.” The animal has some unique features and it lives in specific areas. This post will share information regarding Where do Axolotls live, their habitat plus frequently asked questions about their surroundings.

Native Habitats of Axolotls

Lakes Xochimilco and Chalco

Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco are the homes of axolotls in Mexico’s Valley of Mexico region. These lakes used to form part of an extensive system in the past which comprised much of what is today Mexico City. However, with time urbanization led to shrinking of these water bodies to great extents.

Freshwater Preferences

Axolotls naturally live in freshwater environments that are still or slow moving. This is because fast flowing waters tend to stress them as well as disrupt their feeding and reproduction activities.

Neoteny and Temperature Tolerance

However, what makes axolotls very interesting, among other things about them is neoteny. Instead of metamorphosing into terrestrial adults like all other salamanders do, they still retain their aquatic larvae forms until death. Therefore, they must continue living within aquatic ecosystems too.

Although there are many temperatures this species can tolerate, it prefers temperate waters between 14-20°C (57-68°F). Physiological processes including general health partly depend on such range of temperature for survival.

Threats to Their Natural Habitat

Habitat Destruction

Human activities cause severe damage on natural areas where different species including those in the axolotl group live. Drainage brought about by urban development has resulted in loss and shrinkage of some lakes thereby leading to drastic decline in populations.

Pollution and Non-native Species

Pollution from farm run-off and city garbage heaps worsen their habitat while introduced non-indigenous species such as tilapia and carp also threaten the existence of axolotls. Those invasive creatures always have a hand on food supplies more than young axolotls in particular.

FAQs About Axolotl Habitats

Can Axolotls Live in Tap Water?

It’s necessary to treat tap water containing harmful chlorine and chloramines before it can be considered as an environment for axolotls; an aquarium specific water conditioner can come in handy.

Do Axolotls Need a Heater in Their Tank?

Basically, these animals don’t need any heat when kept at room temperature or even lower because they thrive better under cold conditions. The normal temperature should be maintained within 14-20°C range.

What Kind of Substrate is Best for Axolotl Tanks?

Fine sand or bare-bottomed aquarium is what is recommended for axolotle tanks. Never use gravel or small pebbles because they may get swallowed by the axolotle which will eventually lead to impaction.

How Often Should I Clean My Axolotl’s Tank?

To keep your pet axolotl healthy, make sure that you maintain its tank properly. One has to conduct a partial water change of between 20-30% of tank volume weekly, and remove any left-over food items plus waste materials. But full tank cleaning will be determined by size of fish tank and filtration system so that it may take place less often.

Conclusion: Where Do Axolotls Live?

Axolotls are undoubtedly astounding creatures which have a distinctive habitat. They come from the retreating waters of Mexico’s Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco, where they have evolved to live in cold freshwater bodies. However, their natural homes are undergoing destruction due to pollution and invasion by alien species.

Understanding where axolotls normally exist and what they need will help us appreciate these interesting animals more, even possibly help us save them from extinction. If you like them or own them doesn’t matter; any information on axolots’ natural range can be useful in ensuring proper care for your lovely pets.

Moreover, visit our website or talk with our capable personnel if you would like further details about maintaining axolotls.

You can also read: What Are Amphibians?