Due to their ease of care and nutritional value, many pet parents choose goldfish.
They may be unsuitable for your axolotl. Axolotls can not handle their waste and ammonia.
I was shocked by this behavior since it’s not something you hear about often. After researching, I discovered that axolotls could eat small fish like goldfish. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that they should never be fed goldfish exclusively as they need a balanced diet to stay healthy.
This experience was a good reminder that even with animals we think we know well, there can still be surprises!
Can Axolotls Eat Goldfish?
Axolotls are aquatic salamanders native to Mexico’s Xochimilco (pronounced SO-chee-MILL-koh). Their unique appearance and popularity as aquarium pets have made these neotenic salamanders famous.
It is crucial not to keep axolotls in an aquarium with too high a temperature. Doing so could reduce their lifespan and waste production, which is bad for them.
Since they nip fins when stressed, they may not be good tankmates for goldfish or other fish.
An axolotl’s gills may become unhealthy if overfed. These fish often carry parasites and bacteria that could kill your axolotl.
Nutritional Content of Goldfish
Goldfish are high in protein and minerals, making them good for axolotl tanks. Goldfish also remove toxins like ammonia and nitrites from aquarium water.
They are ideal for axolotls due to their calcium and phosphorus content. In addition, salamanders need low fat.
Axolotls eat blackworms, which are nutritious and easy to find at pet and aquarium stores.
While adults can go longer without food, young axolotls must be fed daily or twice daily. Axolotls can eat various foods depending on their growth stage, but some are better than others.
Health Benefits and Risks of Goldfish
Goldfish are good food for axolotls because they are nutritious and protein-rich.
When served in small, digestible pieces or flakes, they are a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
Make sure axolotls do not eat too much. Overeating can cause digestive issues.
Gastrointestinal obstruction in axolotls can be fatal if untreated.
To avoid this, use soft or sinking pellets.
Axolotls, like earthworms and tubifex worms, are easy to find. These are easy to find and provide a nutritious and tasty diet for your axolotl.
Other Alternatives to Goldfish
Goldfish and other aquarium inhabitants can get along. Some are less likely to be eaten by your axolotls.
Axolotls and goldfish have different feeding, water, and temperature needs. These nocturnal creatures may also be stressed by bright lighting.
Relocating two species can cause stress, missing limbs, or death for one.
They may also raise ammonia and nitrite levels, which could harm other fish in your tank.
Goldfish alternatives include bloodfin tetras, checker barbs, and dojo loaches. These slow swimmers will not compete with your goldfish, making them a great addition to your aquarium.
Conclusion about Eating Goldfish
Goldfish have a special place in culture and history and are hardy and easy to care for.
Petting them makes them great companions, and they are very social. They are not good for humans to eat.
No matter how healthy they appear, eating pond or wild goldfish is never advised. Consuming these may kill you due to bacteria and parasites.
They may also contain medications that your axolotl could accidentally ingest. These can cause digestive issues and harm their health.