Also known as the Mexican walking fish, Axolotls are the amphibians with the most attention from humans. These fascinating creatures captivate our minds and heart alike, leaving everyone in curiosity. These unique salamanders grab attention for their neotenic characteristics.
Axolotls can retain their juvenile features throughout their lives. However, there’s more to Axolotls than their regenerative abilities and neotenic characteristics. It isn’t very common, but some Axolotls can undergo Morphing, a process where these aquatics transit into a more terrestrial form. Wondering, “What to do if your Axolotl Morphs”? Continue reading since we have got you all sorted.
For Axolotls owners, noticing signs of morphing in their pet is an exciting and concerning experience. This is one of the greatest phenomena associated with Axolotls however is very rare and unlikely with most of them. Some Axolotls survive this transformation, whereas others don’t.
Join us in this article as we explore the reasons behind Axolotls Morphing. We will also discuss the physical changes and, most importantly, the care adjustments needed during the transition phase. Whether you’re curious about axolotl morphing or currently facing this situation, make sure you read the article till the end to get your hand on the best information.
What is Axolotl Morphing?
Axolotl morphing is a natural process where axolotls undergo a transformation. As an Axolotl Morph, it transforms from its aquatic, neotenic form to a more terrestrial, adult form. Generally, Axolotls are Neotenic and thus retain their juvenile features and remain in an aquatic stage for their lives.
However, some Axolotls undergo certain factors that trigger morphing in them. These Axolotls start losing their gills, develop lungs, and even potentially grow limbs. The process of Morphing also includes physical such as an elongation of the body and an increase in limb development.
What triggers Morphing in Axolotls isn’t fully understood, and it may vary. Some of the known factors that can induce Morphing in Axolotls in hormonal fluctuations, temperature changes, and change in water quality. However, it is important to learn that only a rare number of Axolotls undergo Morphing.
Axolotl morphing is a natural part of their lifecycle. It isn’t something humans should try to reverse or stop. Instead, offer the amphibian care, maintain stable water conditions, and provide a suitable environment for them.
How to know if my Axolotl is Morphing?
Axolotls Morph either in their juvenile or adult stage of development. Morphing makes them undergo both physical and behavioral changes. Usually, the signs of Morphing transformation are pretty clear, and humans can easily identify them. It is important to recognize the signs of transformation so that you can prepare for the process.
Here’s how you can know if your Axolotl is Morphing:
- Axolotls’ tail and dorsal fin will start receding.
- Axolotl will start having eyelids.
- Axolotls’ eyes will start to bulge.
- Axolotl, after Morphing, will need to walk around, and thus, their legs will start to grow thicker and larger.
- Axolotls’ gill will become extinct.
- Their color may start to change.
- Axolotls’ behavior may undergo dramatic change.
- As the transformation nears its end, Axolotls will struggle to swim and will reach the water’s surface to get oxygen.
Is it bad for an axolotl to morph?
Since the process of Morphing is natural in Axolotls, it cannot be termed as bad. However, this transformation is a serious concern, especially for pet Axolotl owners. Axolotls, who undergo Morphing in the wild, manage to transform their lifestyle quite easily. But the ones in captivity inside tanks and aquariums can find the later stage of transformation difficult, especially with inadequate care. It can severely impact their health and lifespan.
What to do if my Axolotl Morph?
Once you’ve recognized the signs of Morphing in Axolotl, it is time for some action. If your Axolotl undergoes Morphing, there are several steps you can take to ensure its well-being. Here are a few of them:
- Firstly, prepare a suitable place for Axolotls to Morph. Their aquarium should be shallow with as much water for Axolotls to stick out of it. Axolotls need plenty of air during transformation; thus, keep it in mind. You can also add large rocks or stones on the other side of the aquarium to have some dry land.
- Include more hiding spots in Axolotls’ tank during Morphing to make your pet feel secure.
- Make sure the Axolotl aquarium has a lid on since, in the later stage of transformation; it will be perfectly capable of walking and climbing walls. If the tank doesn’t have a secure lid, the Axolotl may leave the space easily. However, to ensure good airflow, the lid must have multiple spots.
- Keep another container ready for the after-transformation time. Pick an aquarium of 20 gallons or more and place wet towels or eco-earth soil for the substrate. Do include some hiding spots. The temperature of the new container should be 18.3 to 22.2 degrees Celsius.
- Offer live food and frozen food throughout the process to ensure sufficient dietary care. Go for live earthworms or crickets and feed them twice a week or more. Do include a bowl of water to keep the Axolotl hydrated.
- Keep a close eye on your Axolotl for any signs of illness or health problems. Upon noticing something, reach a veterinarian experienced in amphibian care.
How to stop an Axolotl from Morphing?
It is possible to stop an Axolotl from Morphing; however, since Morphing is a natural process, preventing or delaying it is not advisable. Stopping an Axolotl from Morphing can reduce its lifespan. In fact, forcing Morphing to can have an adverse impact on Axolotl’s health.
For how long can Morphed Axolotls live?
Axolotls who have undergone a Morphing transformation can live a healthy age of 10 to 15 years. With favorable conditions and care, some of them can even live to the age of 20 years.
Can Morphing make my Axolotl die?
No, the process of metamorphosis itself does not directly cause an axolotl to die. However, since it is a vulnerable and challenging phase for axolotls, there are several risks associated. Factors like Inadequate nutrition, Stress, Unsuitable habitat, and Health issues during the process of Morphing can definitely make the Axolotl die.
Wrapping up…
If your axolotl morphs, create suitable habitat, adjust water temperature, provide proper nutrition, and monitor its health closely. Consult a veterinarian for guidance if needed.