Axolotls are critically endangered Mexican salamanders increasingly kept in zoos and aquariums. Their welfare depends on precise water quality, appropriate temperature, and species-appropriate enrichment.
Captive axolotls suffer most from poor water quality and incorrect temperatures. Ammonia and nitrite spikes cause gill damage and respiratory distress. Zoo populations serve as critical insurance against wild extinction, but must be managed with high welfare standards. Enrichment in the form of hiding places, varied substrates, and live prey items supports natural foraging behavior. Social housing requires careful monitoring as axolotls may bite each others limbs, though regeneration often occurs. Lighting should be dim as they are crepuscular and lack eyelids.