When most people see the term “Axolotl”, they assume it is a gastrointestinal medicine, but let me tell you, it’s not. It’s actually an aquatic salamander, and it makes for a most excellent pet.

Unless you’re from Mexico, you were totally confused by the mention of an Axolotl. Axolotls hail from Mexico, and as mentioned, they are aquatic salamanders. What makes them so unusual though is the fact that they have several amazing traits. For one, Axolotls stay in their youthful forms even when they reach adulthoods. This lack of physical change does not interfere with their breeding ability. Another outstanding characteristic of Axolotls is the presence of both lungs and gills. Still, the most remarkable of all the Axolotl’s features is its regenerative power. The Axolotls can regenerate not only their limbs but sometimes, their critical organs as well with no scarring at all. Axolotls vary in color, and may be tan, brown, black, grey, or white.

The Axolotl is a low maintenance pet. It lives best in a tank between the sizes of 8 and 10 gallons. Around the clock, there should be at least 6 inches of chlorine free water in the container. It is important to note chlorine’s toxicity to Axolotls. Each week, the water must be changed in the tank, and its temperature range should be no less than 15 degrees Celsius, and no higher than 18 degrees Celsius. After making sure your Axolotl is comfortably back in the tank, be sure to replace the lid. If not, you may find yourself playing Axolotl detective.  

Since Axolotls prefer a meat diet, they are considered to be carnivores. Although they are fond of tiny fish, worms, and insects, Axolotls will also eat certain kinds of pet food.  Axolotls are not overly sociable with other fish, so to avoid them trying to eat their roommates, they should live alone.

Because Axolotls are such distinctively fascinating organisms, they are very popular as pets for kids of all ages. Buying an Axolotl will not delete your bank account; the price ranges from $15 to $30. You will, however, end up spending at least $100 on a home for your aquatic pet, but then again, what is a little money between friends? The next time you’re considering a new addition to your family, think original. Think Axolotl.