Axolotls living with gravel or/and stones

A controversial subject throughout the hobby, there are arguments that gravel can replicate the axolotls natural living environment and help break down food, as well as arguments stating that under no circumstances should axolotls live in a tank with gravel or stones.

So which one do we advocate for?

ABSOLUTELY NO GRAVEL OR STONES............EVER!

When you run a rescue you see axolotls come in with all kinds of different ailments, from minor issues that can be easily treated to serious life threatening emergencies such as impaction.

You may think that the stone you are adding to your axolotls tank is plenty big enough, but is it 3 times the size of their head ( at least)? if not, take it out. If you have ever seen an axolotl "yawn" you will see just how wide an axolotl can open its mouth and all it takes is for the axolotl to attempt to catch their food and that stone/gravel be in the way, and your axolotl is now in a life threatening position.

Still not quite convinced of the dangers? Well take a look at the x-rays below taken by other rescues and breeders who have received impacted axolotls who have needed emergency veterinarian intervention.

Is an animals suffering less important than following simple husbandry requirements?

Please, when purchasing or adopting an axolotl, remember that the substrate they need is that of fine sand or a bare bottom. Many people use slate or aquarium grade artificial grass too. You can make your tank pretty without stones, but you can't bring an animal back from the dead!

Sorry for the hard hitting language throughout this document, but with more and more people joining the axolotl hobby and getting given incorrect advice, it is so important that the risks are made very clear to everyone for the sake of the animals.