GFP Black Melanoid
GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl – Captive-Bred Dark Axolotl Morph
The GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl is a striking captive-bred axolotl morph with a dark gray to black melanoid appearance and a hidden glow. Under UV or blue lighting, GFP axolotls can show a bright green glow, with the eyes often appearing especially vivid.
At first glance, this axolotl may look similar to a standard Black Melanoid, but its GFP genetics give it a unique look under the right lighting. The dark coloration contrasts beautifully against light substrate, planted decor, and lighter axolotl morphs, making it a favorite for aquarists who enjoy bold, high-contrast displays.
Key Features
- Dark gray to black melanoid axolotl morph
- GFP genetics may glow green under UV or blue lighting
- Eyes can appear bright green under proper lighting
- Captive-bred for quality and aquarium care
- Beautiful contrast against white substrate or lighter axolotl morphs
- Unique axolotl often compared to “Toothless” because of its dark appearance
Care Guide
- Species: Ambystoma mexicanum
- Common Name: GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, but may mistake small tankmates for food
- Adult Size: Approximately 9–12 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for one adult; larger is preferred
- Water Temperature: 60–68°F recommended
- pH Range: 6.5–8.0
- Diet: Carnivore
- Origin: Captive-bred
What Does GFP Mean?
GFP stands for green fluorescent protein. Axolotls with GFP genetics may glow green under UV or blue lighting. This glow is not the same as normal body coloration and is most visible under proper lighting conditions.
In the GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl, the dark body color creates a dramatic contrast with the green glow, especially around the eyes and lighter tissue areas.
Ideal Tank Setup
Axolotls require cool, clean, fully cycled aquariums with stable water quality. Use gentle filtration, low to moderate water flow, smooth hides, and safe decor with no sharp edges. Fine sand or bare-bottom setups are commonly used to help reduce the risk of impaction.
A secure lid is recommended, and strong lighting should be avoided unless shaded areas and hides are provided. Axolotls do best in cooler water and should not be kept in tropical aquarium temperatures.
Diet & Feeding
GFP Black Melanoid Axolotls are carnivores and should be fed a protein-rich diet. Good staple foods include earthworms, axolotl pellets, blackworms, and other appropriate prepared or frozen foods based on size.
Feed appropriately sized foods and remove uneaten food to help maintain clean water quality.
Compatible Tankmates
Axolotls are usually best kept alone or with similarly sized axolotls in a properly sized aquarium. Fish, shrimp, and snails may be eaten, may nip at axolotl gills, or may create care risks.
If housing multiple axolotls together, make sure they are similar in size and provide enough space, hides, and feeding supervision to reduce stress or accidental nipping.
Care Tips
- Keep water cool, clean, and stable
- Use a fully cycled aquarium before adding an axolotl
- Avoid sharp rocks, rough decor, and gravel
- Provide hides and shaded areas
- Use gentle filtration with low flow
- Monitor ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and temperature regularly
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl?
A GFP Black Melanoid Axolotl is a dark melanoid axolotl morph with GFP genetics, meaning it may glow green under UV or blue lighting.
Do GFP axolotls glow all the time?
No. The green glow is most visible under UV or blue lighting. Under normal lighting, they may look similar to a dark Black Melanoid axolotl.
Are GFP Black Melanoid Axolotls hard to care for?
They require the same specialized care as other axolotls, including cool water, a cycled aquarium, gentle filtration, and excellent water quality.
What temperature should axolotls be kept at?
Axolotls should generally be kept in cool water around 60–68°F. Warm tropical aquarium temperatures are not suitable for long-term axolotl health.
Can axolotls live with fish?
It is not recommended. Fish may nip axolotl gills, and axolotls may try to eat fish. Species-only setups are usually safest.
What substrate is best for axolotls?
Bare-bottom tanks or fine sand are commonly used. Gravel should be avoided because axolotls may swallow it, which can cause serious health problems.
What do axolotls eat?
Axolotls eat protein-rich foods such as earthworms, axolotl pellets, blackworms, and other appropriate carnivore foods.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
GFP Black Melanoid Axolotls are unique captive-bred axolotls with dark coloration and a hidden green glow under UV or blue lighting. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for axolotls, axolotl care supplies, aquarium filters, cool-water aquarium equipment, hides, and aquarium maintenance products.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Low stock: 1 left
Couldn't load pickup availability
Explore Related Aquarium Products: