Copper Melanoid Axolotl
Price range: $184.99 through $284.99
Copper axolotls are one of the more rare common morphs. They have brown/copper-colored bodies covered in both light spots, dark spots, and iridophores.
Copper Melanoid Axolotl
Copper axolotls are one of the more rare common morphs. They have brown/copper-colored bodies covered in both light spots, dark spots, and iridophores.
Appearance
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Coloration: Deep, rich copper tones with a metallic sheen. Unlike standard melanoids, the copper variant has warm, reddish-brown highlights, giving it a striking, almost glowing appearance.
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Pattern: Typically solid with minimal spotting. Its skin is smooth and uniform, emphasizing its metallic luster.
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Eyes: Usually dark, complementing its deep body color.
Size & Growth
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Adult Size: Generally 9–12 inches (23–30 cm) in length.
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Growth Rate: Moderate; they can reach full size within 12–18 months under optimal care.
Personality & Behavior
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Temperament: Docile and relatively easy to handle, though they should be approached gently to avoid stress.
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Activity: Most active during the night (nocturnal tendencies) but can be seen exploring during the day. They enjoy hiding spots and smooth substrates.
Habitat & Care
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Tank Setup: Minimum 20 gallons for a single adult. Copper Melanoids prefer cool water (16–18°C / 61–64°F).
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Substrate: Sand or bare-bottom tanks are ideal to prevent accidental ingestion of gravel.
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Hiding Spots: Include caves, PVC pipes, or aquatic plants to mimic their natural environment.
Diet
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Feeding: Carnivorous. They thrive on a mix of live, frozen, or pellet foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and high-quality axolotl pellets.
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Feeding Frequency: Juveniles daily; adults 3–4 times a week.
Health & Lifespan
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Lifespan: Typically 12–15 years with proper care.
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Common Concerns: Sensitive to water quality and temperature fluctuations. Copper Melanoids, like all axolotls, are prone to stress-related illnesses if exposed to inappropriate conditions.
Unique Traits
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The copper hue makes this axolotl a visually stunning addition for enthusiasts and breeders.
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Retains the classic melanoid trait of darker pigmentation but with a warm metallic twist, which is relatively rare and highly sought after in collections.
- Among one of the rarest axolotls you will find, Melanoid Axanthic Copper axolotls have a combination of traits which result in a very beautiful, almost-lavender color.
| Size |
Juvenile(3-5 in.) ,Sub-Adult (5-8 in.) ,Adult Male (8+ in.) ,Adult Female (8+ in.) |
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Before Purchasing Your First Axolotl...
Are you ready to purchase an axolotl? Before you do, there are a few super important things you should do first:
Purchase a properly-sized tank and all of the necessary equipment for your axolotl. To learn more about this, read The Best Axolotl Care Guide in the World
Make sure you have established a healthy Nitrogen Cycle in your tank. To learn more about the nitrogen cycle, read our guide that explains How to Cycle an Aquarium.
Read and understand the Western Aquatics Axolotls Shipping / DOA Policy.
If you are a first-time axolotl owner in North Florida, we highly recommend coming by our store location to meet with our axolotl experts and learn all about what you need to do to prepare the perfect new home for your axolotl. If you aren't in North Florida, be sure you read both of the guides above, then visit our Blog to get more information about raising these amazing aquatic pets.
Related products
Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl
Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl: A Rare and Stunning Morph Explained
The Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl is one of the most unique and visually striking axolotl morphs. Known for its subtle coloration, smooth texture, and captivating appearance, this morph is highly sought after by axolotl enthusiasts and breeders alike.
What Is a Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl?
A Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl combines two rare genetic traits — hypomelanism and melanoidism.
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Hypomelanistic means the axolotl has reduced melanin, resulting in a lighter or faded coloration compared to normal melanoids.
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Melanoid axolotls, on the other hand, lack iridophores (the shiny pigment cells), giving them a smooth, matte appearance.
When these traits are combined, the result is a soft gray or smoky brown axolotl with an elegant, muted tone and dark eyes — a perfect blend of mystery and beauty.
Appearance and Coloration
The Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid axolotl typically features:
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Light gray or beige skin with subtle undertones of lavender or brown
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Dark, non-shiny eyes due to the melanoid gene
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Minimal to no iridescence, giving the body a velvety look
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Occasionally, a faint golden or cream hue under strong lighting
This morph is especially admired for its balanced contrast — not too dark, not too pale — making it a showpiece in any aquarium.
Genetics and Rarity
Both melanoid and hypomelanistic genes are recessive, meaning they must be inherited from both parents for the morph to appear. Because of this, Light Hypomelanistic Melanoids are relatively rare and often bred intentionally by experienced axolotl breeders.
Breeding this morph requires:
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Careful pairing of genetically compatible axolotls
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Knowledge of lineage to prevent inbreeding
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Patience, as not every clutch will produce this specific color variation
Care and Habitat Needs
Despite their rare genetics, Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotls require the same care as other axolotl morphs. To keep them healthy and vibrant:
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Maintain water temperature between 60–64°F (16–18°C)
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Keep pH levels between 6.5 and 8.0
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Provide clean, dechlorinated water and perform regular water changes
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Offer a balanced diet of earthworms, pellets, or bloodworms
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Avoid strong lighting, as axolotls are naturally light-sensitive
Personality and Behavior
Like other axolotls, the Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid is calm, curious, and non-aggressive. They enjoy exploring, resting on smooth surfaces, and occasionally interacting with their surroundings. Their gentle demeanor makes them ideal for both beginner and experienced keepers.
Why They’re Popular
Collectors love this morph for its rare genetics and subtle elegance. Its soft, smoky appearance contrasts beautifully with brighter morphs like Leucistic or Golden Albino axolotls. Because of its scarcity, Light Hypomelanistic Melanoids are often seen as a premium or showcase morph among axolotl enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
The Light Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl is a fascinating and graceful morph that highlights the incredible genetic diversity of these beloved amphibians. Whether you’re a dedicated breeder or a passionate hobbyist, this morph’s rarity and understated beauty make it a prized addition to any collection.
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