Axolotl
Ambystoma mexicanum
There is moderate risk associated with keeping this species as a pet, as explained below. Prospective pet owners should research if they can safely keep the animal for its lifetime, including housing, proper food and veterinary care, and be sure it came from a legal source and is allowed in their jurisdiction.
© Shutterstock.com
Assessment results
Moderate risk
Conservation | Moderate risk
This animal is likely to be threatened by extinction in the wild, and/or it is subject to international trade controls due to demand in the pet trade. Please check that the animal you want comes from a reputable seller or rescue center that follows best practices when they source their animals. Learn more about wildlife conservation and the pet trade.
Legality | Moderate risk
It’s likely that the animal has some national legal protections or import restrictions; however, exotic pet ownership is regulated at the state, county, or city level, so check your jurisdiction to see if you can own it. Keeping these protected or prohibited species can have legal consequences for the owner, including fines or bans on pet ownership or sale. Learn more about relevant exotic pet trade and ownership laws.
Human and public health | Low risk
It is likely that this animal is not a threat to human or public health, but make sure to practice good hygiene when handling any animal.
Invasiveness | Low risk
This species would not likely impact native biodiversity or habitats. However, never release a pet into the wild for any reason.
Animal welfare | Moderate risk
Care, diet, and housing needs of this species are either insufficiently known or difficult, making it hard to ensure it has a good quality of life for its lifetime. Learn more about the challenges with exotic pet welfare.
⚠️ Important considerations
- Their population is declining in the wild, and they are a critically endangered species due to pollution, habitat degradation, water diversion from the two lakes they occur in, and over-collection for food and medicine. However, they can be captive bred with a proper setup, and legal and legitimate breeding facilities exist. Make sure to obtain an axolotl from a reputable captive breeding source.
- Check your local laws on exotic pet ownership. In the US, some states prohibit ownership of axolotls or require permits.
- Axolotl dietary and water quality needs are very hard to meet in captivity and generally are not recommended as pets for this reason.
- Ensure you have access to a veterinarian that specializes in amphibians and consult them about proper habitat setup, diet, and care. Find an amphibian vet near you.
Basic information
Taxonomy:
Urodela, Ambystomatidae
Lifespan:
10-15 years
Weight:
2-8 oz (57-227 g)
Size:
6-18 in (15-46 cm) long
Native range and habitat:
Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco in southern Mexico City
Diet:
Carnivore including crustaceans, mollusks, insect eggs, and small fish
Activity and behavior:
- Solitary creatures that burrow in aquatic vegetation and mud during the day and that venture out to eat at night
- Can regrow limbs five times in a few weeks and other organs many more times
© WWF-Japan
