Melanoid Axanthic Copper Axolotl
Price range: $219.99 through $389.99
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.
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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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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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