Can Axolotls Live With Apple Snails? Compatibility Analysis
Risk Level: High
The Verdict: Axolotls and Apple Snails
While they share some temperature overlap, large snails pose a severe choking hazard. If an axolotl attempts to swallow an apple snail, the shell can become lodged in their throat or digestive tract, requiring surgical removal.
Environmental Clash
Axolotl Needs
- Temperature: 60°F - 68°F (15°C - 20°C)
- Diet: Strict Carnivore (Earthworms)
- Behavior: Bottom-dwelling ambush predator
- Vulnerabilities: External gills, poor eyesight
Apple Snails Needs
- Temperature: 68°F - 82°F (20°C - 28°C)
- Diet: Herbivore/Scavenger
- Risk to Axolotl: High
The Golden Rule of Axolotl Cohabitation
If it fits in their mouth, they will eat it. If it doesn't fit in their mouth, it will likely nip at their gills. The safest tank mate for an axolotl is another axolotl of the exact same size and gender.