Axolotls for Sale
Shop our selection of captive-bred axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum), the charming, perpetually smiling aquatic salamanders that have become one of the most beloved exotic pets in the hobby. Axolotls stay fully aquatic their whole lives, come in a rainbow of striking morphs, and can live well over a decade with proper care. At Tropical Treasures in Cheyenne we offer healthy, captive-bred axolotls along with the specialty sinking foods they need to thrive.
Axolotls are a true cold-water species and have very different needs from tropical fish, so a little planning goes a long way. Done right, they're hardy, interactive, and endlessly fascinating to keep.
Popular Axolotl Morphs
Our axolotl lineup rotates with availability, but you'll often find eye-catching morphs such as:
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Wild & melanoid — classic dark, speckled axolotls with natural coloration.
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Leucistic & classic pink — pale bodies with dark eyes and rosy gills.
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Copper, axanthic & lavender — rarer color morphs prized by collectors.
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GFP "glowie" axolotls — a fluorescent morph that glows under blue light.
We also stock quality axolotl sinking pellets and wafers to keep your salamander well fed.
Axolotl Care Tips
The single most important rule is that axolotls are cold-water animals — they do best in cool temperatures and can become stressed or ill if their water gets too warm, so most keepers avoid heaters and use a fan or chiller in warm rooms. They need a fully cycled tank with gentle filtration and low flow, since strong currents stress them. Use either a bare bottom or fine, soft sand, never gravel, because axolotls eat substrate and loose gravel can cause dangerous impaction. Feed a protein-rich diet of sinking axolotl pellets, earthworms, and similar foods. Because they're sensitive to water quality, keep up with regular testing and water changes. Always confirm the exact temperature and tank-size recommendations for your setup before bringing one home.
Best Tank Setup for Axolotls
Axolotls are best kept in a species-only tank rather than a community aquarium — they're messy, cold-water predators that may try to eat tankmates or get their gills nipped. Hardy, cool-tolerant live plants like anubias and low-light plants work well for cover since they don't need bright, warming lights. A soft sand substrate and a few smooth caves give them places to rest and hide. Skip fish and snail tankmates unless you've researched the risks carefully.
FAQ: Axolotls
Do axolotls need a heater? No — they're a cold-water species and generally prefer cool temperatures. In warm rooms many keepers use a fan or chiller to keep the water cool rather than ever adding heat.
What do axolotls eat? A protein-rich carnivore diet, typically sinking axolotl pellets and earthworms. We carry specialty axolotl foods in store.
Can axolotls live with fish? It's not recommended. Axolotls may eat small fish, and many fish will nip at an axolotl's delicate external gills. A species-only tank is safest.
Why can't I use gravel? Axolotls grab substrate while feeding, and gravel can be swallowed and cause life-threatening impaction. Use bare bottom or fine sand instead.
How big do axolotls get? Adults commonly reach around 9 to 12 inches, so they need more room than people expect. Confirm current tank-size guidance before purchasing.
Stop by Tropical Treasures in Cheyenne or call us at 307-369-1118 and we'll walk you through everything you need to set up a healthy axolotl tank. We're always happy to talk cold-water care before you bring one home.
