Do Axolotls Have Intelligence?

Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish, do exhibit a degree of intelligence. While primarily driven by instinct as amphibians and salamanders, observing their behavior over time reveals surprisingly cute and seemingly intelligent actions. For instance, they might approach their owners for food or react to perceived threats, showcasing more than just basic reflexes.

Axolotls lack frontal scales, their vertebrae are amphicoelous, and they possess distinct costal grooves along their sides. Most species are primarily terrestrial as adults, distributed across a wide range from Southeast Alaska to the Mexican Plateau, mainly inhabiting soil burrows in the Americas. Axolotls are a type of blunt-nosed salamander, with broad heads, small eyes, and large tongues that move freely only on the sides. Most axolotls have transverse vomerine teeth, some are far apart, while others are "m" shaped.

Caring for axolotls requires specific attention to their environment, including space, water temperature, and water quality. The aquarium should be at least twice the size of the axolotl, maintaining a neutral or slightly alkaline, hard water condition. Water temperatures should be kept between 16-20 degrees Celsius. To ensure cleanliness, efficient filtration systems and regular water changes are crucial. Axolotls are carnivorous; juveniles can be fed daphnia and bloodworms, while more mature axolotls can be fed shrimp, minnows, or specially formulated pellets. Adult axolotls can consume bloodworms, goldfish, de-headed shrimp, crucian carp, and loaches. Due to their poor eyesight, they are prone to ingesting foreign objects, so avoid using sand or gravel substrates and instead offer them live food. If decorating the tank, consider large stones and aquatic plants.

Signs of Intelligence in Axolotls

1. Preemptive Alertness:

Axolotls are generally docile, but when they sense a threat, such as prolonged staring from a cat or dog, they exhibit surprising awareness. They may attempt to intimidate the threat, showcasing a level of intelligence dedicated to self-preservation.

2. Active Food Seeking:

Axolotls often actively seek food from their owners. If they smell shrimp or see live food in the owner's hand, they will often approach in anticipation of a meal.Don’t miss out on this:Pet Breeding