Can Axolotls Live with Goldfish? Simply NO!

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Axolotls, a species of aquatic salamander, and Goldfish, a popular aquarium fish, are both charming creatures often kept in home aquariums. But the question remains: can axolotls live with goldfish? The answer depends on several factors, including their behavior, the tank setup, and environmental conditions.

Overview of Axolotls and Goldfish

Axolotls are known for their regenerative abilities and aquatic lifestyle. They thrive in cool, freshwater environments, and they are relatively low-maintenance.

Goldfish, on the other hand, are hardy and adaptable fish that come in various shapes and colors. They are generally peaceful, but they can be quite active in the tank. Understanding their unique needs and how they interact with other species is key to determining if they can live together peacefully.

Can Axolotls Live with Goldfish?

When you think about whether axolotls can coexist with goldfish, it’s important to keep in mind that both species share a similar set of living conditions. Goldfish, which are hardy creatures, come from the wild Prussian carp and can easily tolerate a range of water conditions. Both species prefer cold water and are generally peaceful. Goldfish are often kept in tanks and ponds with other fish, invertebrates, and creatures.

Despite their compatibility in some aspects, it’s not always advisable to house axolotls and goldfish together. While they can thrive in similar environments, it is important to consider their individual care needs and behaviors before making such a decision.

Factors That Set Them Apart

The following are the key factors in which they differ, highlighting the distinct aspects that set them apart from one another.

Temperament and Behavior

Axolotls are generally calm creatures, but they can be territorial, especially when it comes to feeding time. They can become stressed if there are constant disturbances in their environment. While Axolotls do not usually hunt other fish, their lack of movement and slow pace can make them vulnerable to more active species.

Goldfish are social creatures that often prefer being with other fish. However, they can become quite active and even aggressive if they feel crowded or stressed. Goldfish are curious, and sometimes, they might nip at an Axolotl’s gills or fins, which could cause injury.

Water Conditions

While both species prefer cooler waters, it’s important to remember that their temperature preferences differ slightly. Axolotls may struggle if the water is too warm, so it’s important to monitor the temperature regularly.

Goldfish prefer a pH of around 7.0 to 8.4, while Axolotls do best in water that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It’s crucial to maintain the water quality and adjust pH levels to create a balanced environment for both species.

Filtration

Axolotls thrive with a sponge filter system and low water flow. On the other hand, goldfish require a strong filtration system that ensures sufficient water movement and high levels of dissolved oxygen.

Lighting

Goldfish require a consistent day/night lighting cycle for optimal health. Without proper lighting, their feeding and resting patterns are disrupted, resulting in stress and poor health. In contrast, Axolotls are nocturnal and thrive in a dimly lit environment.

Tank mates

Axolotls are solitary creatures, though a male and female pair can typically coexist peacefully. While they cannot live with goldfish, they can share a tank with small schooling fish like White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Zebra Danios, and Mosquito Fish. Apple snails also make suitable tank mates for Axolotls.

Diet and feeding

Both Axolotls and Fancy Goldfish can be fed a similar diet, including pellets and frozen meaty foods such as bloodworms, mosquito larvae, and daphnia. However, since Axolotls are nocturnal and goldfish are active during the day, it is necessary to establish two separate feeding schedules to ensure that neither species goes without food.

Can Goldfish Harm Axolotls?

Goldfish are not known for being aggressive, but they can nip at Axolotls, particularly if they mistake the Axolotl’s gills or fins for food. This could lead to injury or stress for the Axolotl.

Can Axolotls Harm Goldfish?

Axolotls are not typically aggressive toward Goldfish, but their sharp teeth may harm smaller fish, particularly if they are startled. This could lead to injury or even death, depending on the size of the Goldfish and the Axolotl.

FAQs

Can Axolotls live with any other fish?

Axolotls are typically better suited for tanks with no other fish due to their slow-moving nature and potential for injury from more active fish.

What size tank do I need for an Axolotl and Goldfish?

A tank of at least 40 gallons is recommended to ensure both animals have enough space to swim and avoid overcrowding.

Can Goldfish eat Axolotl food?

Goldfish can eat some types of Axolotl food, but they should not be fed the same diet. Goldfish require a balanced diet of flakes and vegetables.

Do Axolotls get stressed easily?

Yes, Axolotls are sensitive to changes in their environment, including water temperature, tank mates, and food.

What is the best water temperature for Axolotls and Goldfish?

The ideal water temperature is between 60-70°F (15-21°C) for both species, with Goldfish being slightly more tolerant of higher temperatures.

Can Axolotls live with other salamanders or amphibians?

It’s generally not recommended to house Axolotls with other amphibians, as they can be territorial or may introduce disease to each other.

Conclusion

While it is possible for Axolotls and Goldfish to live together under the right conditions, it’s not always the best idea. There are several factors to consider, such as their different water temperature preferences, potential for aggression, and overall health risks. If you decide to house both animals together, ensure the tank is large enough, the water conditions are carefully monitored, and the species are not stressed by each other’s presence.