What Is A Leucistic Axolotl? The “Walking Fish” 101 (2024)

What is a leucistic axolotl? We bet this salamander species can “wow” you with its unique and awe-inspiring traits. Indeed, what makes it stand out is its ghostly body, white color, and pink eyes.

That’s why this pet inspires multiple photographers and artists worldwide.

Leucistic axolotls are believed to have a genetic mutation that results in their lack of skin pigmentation. But is it true? Let’s walk through some gorgeous pics and hints of this organism.

What Is A Leucistic Axolotl?

The leucistic axolotls emerge with a fish-like shape with an extra pair of limbs and are so widespread in Mexico’s rivers with the nickname “walking fish“.

They are totally aquatic salamanders that resemble lizards in appearance and far more noteworthy due to their outstanding pink and pale white color.

An individual owns a dorsal fin extending from the body’s sides toward the tail. Also, they have tiny, unwebbed feet, one of the charming features you may see in them. Interestingly, they look joyful and smiley due to their upturned mouths.

Another defining trait is their fluffy external gill, which protrudes from the side of the face and gives them a more framed look.

What Does A Leucistic Axolotl Look Like?

Color

Leucistic axolotls are easily identifiable by their striking pink and white coloring and deep navy blue or black eyes. Depending on their lifestyle and genetics, they may start to develop freckles.

Rare among salamanders, their bodies are translucent white with brilliant gold flecks. Hardly can you encounter them in the wild since predators easily catch them, or they have to hide from their foes.

Still, they are surprisingly widespread in captivity due to their eye-catching appearance and friendly temperament.

This species looks much like albinos. Nonetheless, they do not have red eyes.

They are genetically predisposed to leucism, manifested by decreased skin pigment cells (melanocytes). Commonly, they’ll have a gill that’s pink or red, setting them apart visually from all other counterparts.

Size

Leucistic axolotls can grow much longer than other color morphs. Their average body length is just right for gliding effortlessly through the water.

If you provide them with high-quality food and sustenance, along with regular water modifications, they can grow to 10-18 inches.

Lifespan

The lifespan of leucistic axolotls is quite long.

They are a vulnerable species on the verge of extinction. Yet given a chance to thrive in safe and clean aquatic settings, an individual can survive for up to 10-15 years.

Behavior and Temperament

Leucistic axolotls are well-suited to living in tanks due to their docile nature. Most of the time, these amphibians are only active at night and are pretty mellow and slow-moving.

The bulk of their time is spent slumbering at the tank’s base. They typically have a slight, predatory disposition. You might notice them slowly swimming around the tank when you’re feeding them.

In a tank, shy or stressed fish may often hide among the greenery. Yes, when they are juveniles, they get pretty violent, even among their peers.

Adults, however, are cooperative and peaceful with other guys if each has adequate room.

They will consume anything that can fit inside their mouth, so it is strongly advised against housing them with smaller fish.

Since they thrive in isolation, keeping them in a tank with only their kind is the best.

Eggs & Babies

Leucistic axolotls have eggs, but the embryos inside are not white.

They begin as a gray color, similar to charcoal, but gradually turn lighter once the creature has hatched.

They go through a phase where the faces and bodies are dark, but this fades away as they age (unless it is a dirty lucy).

Some leucistic axolotls can produce as many as 1,000 eggs at once!

What Do Leucistic Axolotl Eat?

A meat-based diet best meets the nutritional requirements of this color morph’s developing body. Hence, regular protein-rich diets suit them just fine.

These creatures would rather eat live prey, from earthworms, blackworms, nightcrawlers, and daphnia to brine shrimp. They’ll also eat commercial feeds like fish pellets, flakes, etc.

Give them food every day. But typically, their eyesight is not that good. Set the food down and present it to them. This way helps them easily capture food and eat better.

Also, to feed them without harming them, you could use forceps to place the meal in front of them gently.

Do Leucistic Axolotls Make Good Pets?

Yes. Leucistic Axolotls make enticing pets for those who are well-versed in their needs and have made the necessary preparations.

They can bond with their owner and become friendly and relaxed around them. Despite their preference for darkness, the leucism makes them easy to spot in the tank.

Axolotl owners face a potential drawback because the animals should be kept in separate enclosures from other aquarium inhabitants. An Axolotl can quickly devour small fish and invertebrates.

Larger fish habitually nibble at your axolotl’s soft gills, which can quickly lead to an injury.

Accordingly, the tank mates you give your axolotl should be docile and have a suitable size.

The Bottom Line

The axolotl, also known as a Mexican salamander, is an amphibian native to Mexico City’s lake system.

But, when it comes to axolotls, another type stands out – the leucistic axolotl.

What is a leucistic axolotl? Back again, we’ve compiled a lot about these vibrant creatures.

Go ahead if you’re all set about having one to be your pet. Chances are you can get a blast by seeing such a drop-dead organism and feeding it daily.

Share this good read with other aquarium lovers as well!