Onyx (Unsexed)
$389.99
Onyx is a GFP Melanoid Axolotl! This axolotl has a strikingly-long, fluffy gills and is significantly darker than many other Melanoid Axolotls we have seen.
Onyx is a GFP Melanoid Axolotl! This axolotl has a strikingly-long, fluffy gills and is significantly darker than many other Melanoid Axolotls we have seen.
What you see is the exact axolotl you will receive if you purchase today.
Gender: N/A
Age: ~7 months
Size: ~7 inches
Individual Axolotls are premium axolotls we choose based on top-tier physical quality and uniqueness. Each Individual Axolotl is one-of-a-kind and carefully handpicked to make sure you purchase one that truly stands out from the rest! As the name intends, every axolotl in this category is the exact one you will receive when purchased.
🖤 Onyx (Unsexed) Overview
The Onyx Axolotl is a visually captivating morph, admired for its deep, glossy black coloration that can range from charcoal gray to jet-black under certain lighting. It gets its name from the precious gemstone onyx, symbolizing mystery, strength, and elegance.
🔍 Appearance
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Color: Dark, sleek pigmentation — usually a blend of melanoid and axanthic traits, resulting in minimal iridescence and no gold flecks.
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Gills: Often appear dark red to black, blending beautifully with the body.
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Eyes: Typically black or very dark, giving a shadowy, uniform look.
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Size: Similar to standard axolotls (up to 12 inches as adults).
⚧ Unsexed Note
Since this axolotl is unsexed, it means it’s still too young to determine whether it’s male or female. As it matures (usually 8–12 months), secondary sex traits such as body shape and cloacal swelling become more noticeable.
🌊 Temperament & Care
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Temperament: Calm, docile, and easy to care for — like most axolotls.
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Tank Setup: Cool, clean freshwater (16–18°C / 60–64°F), sand substrate, low lighting.
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Diet: Carnivorous — enjoys earthworms, bloodworms, pellets, and frozen foods.
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Behavior: Prefers dim environments; their dark color makes them thrive in low-light aquariums.
💎 Why Choose an Onyx Axolotl
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Rare, gemstone-like beauty.
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Low maintenance yet visually stunning.
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Ideal for collectors who appreciate unique axolotl morphs.
| 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.
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Hypomelanistic Melanoid Axolotl
Melanoid
The Melanoid axolotl is a striking color morph of the axolotl, distinguished by its completely dark, almost black appearance. Unlike other axolotl variants that may have pigmentation patterns, the Melanoid’s coloration is uniform, including the gills, skin, and eyes, giving it a sleek and dramatic look.
Physical Traits
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Color: Deep, dark brown to black; lacks the golden or iridescent shimmer seen in wild types.
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Eyes: Typically dark, blending seamlessly with the body.
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Gills: Dark-colored, often black or deep brown, enhancing its overall uniformity.
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Size: Comparable to other axolotls; adults typically grow 9–12 inches (23–30 cm) in length.
Behavior and Temperament
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Docile and calm: Like other axolotls, Melanoids are slow-moving and enjoy hiding in aquatic plants or caves.
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Nocturnal tendencies: They may be more active during low-light periods.
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Feeding: Carnivorous; enjoys worms, small fish, and specialized axolotl pellets.
Care Requirements
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Tank: Minimum 20 gallons for one adult; prefer clean, cool water (~16–18°C / 60–64°F).
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Water quality: Sensitive to poor water conditions; regular water changes are crucial.
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Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom recommended to prevent ingestion of gravel.
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Tank mates: Best kept alone or with other Melanoids; avoid smaller fish that could be eaten.
Genetics
The Melanoid morph is the result of specific genetic traits that reduce reflective pigment cells (iridophores) and yellow pigment (xanthophores), leaving only black pigment (melanophores). This makes them one of the most uniform and visually striking morphs available.
Popularity
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Highly sought after by axolotl enthusiasts for their unique, dramatic appearance.
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Often paired with other morphs for breeding to explore new color combinations.

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