GFP Melanoid Axolotl

What is a GFP Melanoid Axolotl?

A GFP Melanoid Axolotl is a unique combination of two fascinating traits:

• GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) — a genetic marker that makes the axolotl glow bright green under UV or blue light.

• Melanoid — a morph that produces extra melanin, giving the axolotl a deep black or dark gray coloration with no shiny iridophores (reflective pigments).

When combined, this morph results in a dark, velvety axolotl that glows neon green under certain lighting, creating an otherworldly appearance.

🌈 Appearance

• Base Color: Deep black, dark brown, or grayish-black.

• Under UV Light: Glows vibrant green due to the GFP gene.

• Eyes: Typically dark or black with no shine.

• Gills: Dark purple or blackish tones; may faintly glow under UV light.

• Skin Texture: Smooth and velvety, especially under ambient light.

🔬 Genetics

• Melanoid gene (m/m): Suppresses iridophores and xanthophores (no gold or shiny specks).

• GFP gene: Introduced from jellyfish DNA in lab breeding; it’s heritable and can appear in any morph if one parent carries the GFP trait.

• Inheritance: Dominant — if one parent has GFP, some offspring will glow.

🧡 Behavior and Temperament

Like all axolotls, GFP Melanoids are:

• Calm, slow-moving, and mostly nocturnal.

• Curious about their surroundings.

• Solitary by nature — they can be kept with others of similar size, but avoid overcrowding or mixing morphs of very different sizes.

💧 Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons for one adult.

• Water Temperature: 60–68°F (16–20°C).

• pH Range: 7.0–8.0.

• Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom tank (avoid gravel).

• Diet: Earthworms, bloodworms, pellets, or axolotl-safe frozen foods.

• Lighting: Low light (UV only for occasional viewing of the GFP glow).

🌟 Special Feature – The Glow

• The GFP glow does not harm the axolotl.

• It’s visible only under UV or blue LED light.

• Do not expose them to strong UV light for long periods — use it only briefly for observation or photography.

🐣 Breeding Notes

• GFP is dominant, so some offspring of a GFP parent will inherit the glowing trait.

• The Melanoid gene must be inherited from both parents to express the dark coloration.

• You can produce non-glowing melanoids, glowing non-melanoids, or glowing melanoids depending on parental genetics.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

• Rare and visually striking.

• Unique glowing trait.

• Hardy and easy to care for.

⚠️ Cons

• Slightly higher cost than non-GFP morphs.

• Some may fade slightly with age under normal light.

• Requires gentle handling and stable tank conditions.

💲 Market Insight

• Price Range: Typically $70–$150 (depending on breeder, size, and glow intensity).

• Popularity: High among collectors and enthusiasts due to its glow-in-the-dark appeal.