What are axolotls?

Ambystoma mexicanum, aka axolotls, belong to the amphibian class. They are considered neotenic salamanders because of a unique feature of retaining their more “immature”/ larval state. In short, this species differs from their salamander cousins in the sense that they remain fully aquatic throughout their lifetime and usually are much bigger. Axolotls can grow to be to be whopping 13” long and live approximately 15 years with proper care and diet. They are carnivorous, so their diets consist of and is not limited to worms, shrimp, and even select feeder fish in their juvenile to adult stages. Given that axolotls do not have scales, their skin tends to absorb and sense products from their environment. For this reason, they have a protective slime coat that aids in regulating body temperature as well as serve as a barrier to protect the skin from harmful chemicals and bacteria. They are quite sensitive to bright light so they do require a minimal to low light setting and cooler temperatures (60 - 65 degrees Fahrenheit). As you can gather, axolotls are quite sensitive to many things so it is important to research extensively before jumping into purchasing an axolotl. As an aid, I have provided an Axolotl Basics guide that I have put together of a few important pieces of information here : Lotl Basics

Aside from having more unique features, axolotls have an astonishing skill of being able to regenerate body parts, including parts of their brain, within a matter of weeks. For this very reason, axolotls are currently being studied in the labs in hopes of applying this skill to the medical field. How could this be of value you ask? Well for one, theoretically speaking, imagine regenerating parts of your brain that have been lost in cases of Alzheimers, dementia, or “brain dead” victims, or even possibly regenerating limbs/ digits lost in tragic events.

Axolotls have more recently gained popularity from a well known game known as Mine Craft. However, they have existed for, some have speculated, more than 10,000 years. The original species originated from and is native to a lake in Mexico known as Lake Xochimilco. Sadly, native/ wild axolotls are currently considered critically endangered. Most if not all axoltols sold within the U.S are and have been bred from various lines of captive axolotls and differ from native axolotls. For instance, native axolotls more closely resemble the color/ morph known as wilds, however the more exotic colors like pink (leucistic) and gold are a product of selective breeding over time. In addition to the growing popularity, axolotls are being more commonly found sold throughout the states and various countries. However, it is advised to steer away from “backyard breeders”, which is a nickname given to unethical breeders that are trying to make a quick buck. Reputable breeders carefully select axolotls to breed based on genetics and family history, thus avoiding birth defects and inbreeding.

Currently in the U.S, axolotls are illegal to own in California, New Jersey, Maine, and D.C, and a permit is required in New Mexico and Hawaii. According to the Virginia department of Wildlife, Virginia has recently lifted their ban on owning axolotls as of August 1, 2021. The reason for this rigidity in some states is the concern with illegally releasing these non-native pets into the wild, posing a possible threat to our natural wildlife. With this in mind, it is imperative to note that again, releasing axolotls into the wild is illegal and instead, should be surrendered properly perhaps to knowledgeable enthusiasts or breeders, like myself, to be rescued and cared for properly. If your or someone you know wishes to surrender an axolotl, feel free to reach out to me mylotlpets@gmail.com so that we can arrange this, in a no judgement zone and all costs covered. I will rescue all axolotls rehomed through My Lotl Pets as well as most other axolotls in need ( given that I have the available resources) with my ANONYMOUS policy, but if need be, I have great connections to other breeders who are happy to help as well; I promise to keep personal information of all prospective rescues confidential. This policy was established in my business in hopes that all axolotls are given proper care, as well as given a fruitful life. Once rescued, my goal is to nurse all rescued axolotls to health and rehome to appropriate personnel with correct knowledge and tools to ensure they continue to thrive.