Your Cheyenne source for axolotl supplies, specialty sinking foods, and expert cold-water care — plus special-order captive-bred axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) when available. These charming, perpetually smiling aquatic salamanders stay fully aquatic their whole lives, come in a rainbow of striking morphs, and can live many years with proper care. At Tropical Treasures in Cheyenne we keep the specialty foods and gear designed for axolotl care, and we can special-order captive-bred axolotls by morph on request when available.
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 can be interactive and fascinating to keep to keep.
Special Order Notice: All live axolotls are special order only. Availability may vary by morph, size, supplier stock, and season. Please contact us before ordering if you are looking for a specific axolotl color, morph, or size.
Once a special order request is made, we will confirm current availability, estimated arrival time, pricing, and local pickup details. All live axolotls are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at our Cheyenne, Wyoming store; we are not shipping live animals at this time. Axolotls require a properly cycled cold-water aquarium before they come home, so we are happy to help you plan the right setup before placing a special order.
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 support a proper axolotl feeding routine.
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.
Axolotl FAQ
Do axolotls need a heater?
No. Axolotls are cold-water animals and usually do best in cooler water. In warm rooms, many keepers use a fan or chiller instead of adding heat.
What do axolotls eat?
Axolotls are carnivores and are usually fed sinking axolotl pellets, earthworms, and other appropriate protein-focused foods.
Can axolotls live with fish?
A species-only tank is usually safest. Axolotls may eat small fish, and some fish may nip at an axolotl’s external gills.
Why can’t I use gravel?
Axolotls may swallow loose gravel while feeding, which can create serious health risks. Bare bottom tanks or fine sand are safer options.
How big do axolotls get?
Adult axolotls commonly reach around 9–12 inches, so they need more space than many people expect. Confirm tank-size recommendations 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 properly planned axolotl tank. We're always happy to talk cold-water care before you bring one home.
