About feeding a axolotl
Axolotls are neotenic aquatic salamanders — they keep their gills and stay aquatic for life — and they're pure carnivores that hunt by suction. Overfeeding and the wrong foods (or wrong water temperature) cause most captive health problems.
How much should a axolotl eat?
Aquatic feeding is measured as a percentage of body weight per day rather than in calories. The table below uses about 1.5% of body weight daily — always adjust to the two-minute rule and your animal's condition.
| Body weight | Food per day (~1.5% of body weight) |
|---|---|
| 50 g | 0.75 g/day |
| 83 g | 1.2 g/day |
| 117 g | 1.8 g/day |
| 150 g | 2.3 g/day |
| 183 g | 2.8 g/day |
| 217 g | 3.2 g/day |
| 250 g | 3.8 g/day |
What to feed
Axolotls are carnivores fed protein-rich foods: earthworms (a superb staple), specialised axolotl or salmon pellets, and occasional bloodworms or blackworms. Avoid feeder fish (parasite and injury risk) and never feed anything with hard shells that could cause impaction.
How often to feed
Juveniles eat daily; adults every two to three days. Feed only what the axolotl eats in a few minutes and remove uneaten food, as decaying food fouls the water this sensitive amphibian depends on.
Common feeding mistakes
- Overfeeding and leaving uneaten food to foul the water.
- Feeding on gravel that can be swallowed, causing impaction.
- Feeder fish that carry parasites or injure the axolotl.
- Keeping water too warm, which suppresses appetite and health.
Weight & health
Impaction (from swallowed gravel), obesity and water-quality problems from overfeeding are the main risks. Keep the tank cool, use fine sand or bare bottom, and feed measured protein foods.
Frequently asked questions
What do axolotls eat?
Protein-rich carnivore foods — earthworms are an excellent staple, along with axolotl or salmon pellets and occasional bloodworms. Avoid feeder fish and anything with hard shells.
How often should I feed an axolotl?
Juveniles daily; adults every two to three days. Offer only what they eat in a few minutes and remove leftovers to protect water quality.
Can axolotls eat feeder fish?
Best avoided — feeder fish can introduce parasites and injure the axolotl. Earthworms and quality pellets are safer, more reliable staples.
Why is my axolotl not eating?
Warm water is the most common cause — axolotls need cool temperatures. Poor water quality, stress or illness can also suppress appetite. Check temperature and water parameters first.