Can Axolotls Eat Each Other?

Abdul Wasay Khatri | Administrator

Last updated: 8 January, 2026

Yes, axolotls can and will eat each other, especially when there’s a significant size difference. This cannibalistic behavior is most common among juveniles and occurs when a larger axolotl views a smaller one as prey. Axolotls are opportunistic carnivores that will attempt to consume anything that fits in their mouths, including smaller tank mates of their own species. While adult axolotls of similar size are less likely to engage in full cannibalism, they may still bite at each other’s gills, limbs, or tails during feeding time, causing serious injuries even if not fatal.

Why Axolotls Display Cannibalistic Behavior

Cannibalism in axolotls is driven by instinct rather than aggression or malice. In their natural habitat, axolotls are solitary predators that feed on anything they can catch and swallow worms, insects, small fish, and other aquatic creatures. Their hunting mechanism relies on detecting movement and quickly striking at potential prey. When a smaller axolotl moves within range, the larger one simply responds to its predatory instincts without recognizing it as a member of its own species.

Juvenile axolotls are particularly prone to cannibalism. Young axolotls have voracious appetites to fuel their rapid growth, and they lack the size-discrimination abilities of adults. In crowded breeding tanks or grow-out containers, smaller or slower-growing siblings become vulnerable targets. Size differences of just 1-2 inches can trigger predatory behavior, with larger juveniles biting, injuring, or completely consuming smaller ones.

Hunger intensifies cannibalistic tendencies dramatically. Underfed axolotls become more aggressive and less selective about what they attempt to eat. Even axolotls that normally coexist peacefully may turn on each other if food becomes scarce or if feeding schedules are inconsistent. This is why maintaining a regular, adequate feeding routine is critical when housing multiple axolotls together.

Feeding time itself presents high-risk moments for cannibalism. Axolotls have poor eyesight and hunt primarily by detecting movement and scent in the water. When food is introduced, the resulting feeding frenzy can lead to mistaken identity an axolotl may grab a tank mate’s limb thinking it’s a worm, or bite at waving gills that resemble prey. These “accidental” attacks can cause severe trauma.

Consequences and Prevention Strategies

While axolotls possess remarkable regenerative abilities and can regrow lost limbs, gills, and even portions of their organs, repeated cannibalistic attacks create serious problems. Each injury requires energy to heal, diverting resources from growth and normal body functions. Open wounds are vulnerable to bacterial and fungal infections, which can be fatal if left untreated. Chronic stress from constant harassment weakens the immune system and shortens lifespan.

The most effective prevention strategy is size-matching. Never house axolotls with more than a 1-2 inch size difference together. When breeding axolotls, separate individuals by size frequently sometimes every few days during rapid growth phases. This sorting process is labor-intensive but essential for preventing cannibalism in juvenile populations.

Adequate space reduces territorial behavior and cannibalism risk. Each axolotl needs approximately 10 gallons of water minimum, so two require 20+ gallons, three need 30+ gallons, and so on. Cramped conditions increase stress and aggressive encounters, making cannibalism more likely.

Providing multiple hiding spots ensures each axolotl has refuge space. PVC pipes, caves, dense plants, and decorations create territories and reduce confrontations. Each individual should have its own designated hiding area where it feels secure.

Proper feeding practices are crucial. Feed axolotls separately when possible using feeding tongs to deliver food directly to each individual, or temporarily separate them during meals. Well-fed axolotls with full stomachs display significantly less predatory behavior toward tank mates. Feed juvenile axolotls once daily and adults 2-3 times weekly with appropriately sized portions.

Quick FAQ

Will adult axolotls eat each other?
Adult axolotls of similar size rarely engage in full cannibalism, but they may bite at each other’s extremities, especially during feeding, causing injuries that require healing.

Can axolotls regrow body parts lost to cannibalism?
Yes, axolotls can regenerate lost limbs, gills, and tail portions, but regeneration takes weeks to months and drains energy while increasing infection risk.

How do I know if my axolotls are fighting?
Warning signs include missing gill filaments, shortened or damaged limbs, visible bite marks, one axolotl constantly hiding, weight loss, or refusing to eat.

Should I separate axolotls that have bitten each other?
Yes, immediately. Once cannibalistic behavior begins, it typically continues and escalates. Separate them into individual tanks to prevent further injury.

At what age can I safely house axolotls together?
Wait until axolotls reach at least 6 inches in length and ensure they’re within 1-2 inches of each other in size. Even then, monitor closely for any aggression.

Abdul Wasay Khatri
Administrator
Abdul Wasay is the founder and lead author of Axolotl Portal, a trusted site for axolotl care. He spent almost nine months learning about axolotls, including their tanks, feeding, water care, and common health problems. His knowledge comes from trusted vets, research, and real experience from long term axolotl owners. All Posts by