Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum), also known as Mexican walking fish, are unique and fascinating amphibians that remain in their larval stage throughout their lives. One of the most captivating aspects of axolotls is their diverse range of color morphs. These color variations arise from genetic mutations and selective breeding. This guide will explore the common and rare axolotl color morphs, highlighting their distinct characteristics.

Common Axolotl Color Morphs

1. Wild Type

• Description: The wild type axolotl has a natural coloration that closely resembles its wild counterparts. It features a combination of dark green, brown, and black speckles with a lighter underbelly.


• Characteristics: Wild types have dark eyes and can sometimes show a slight iridescence.

2. Leucistic

• Description: Leucistic axolotls are characterized by their pale pink or white bodies with dark eyes. They often have a pinkish hue due to their visible blood vessels.


• Characteristics: Unlike albinos, leucistic axolotls retain pigmentation in their eyes, giving them a unique and appealing look.

3. Albino

• Description: Albino axolotls have a white or pale yellow body with red or pink eyes. Their lack of melanin results in a striking appearance.


• Characteristics: Albinos are more sensitive to light due to the absence of melanin in their eyes and skin.

4. Golden Albino

• Description: This morph has a golden or yellow body with pink or red eyes. Golden albinos may have a metallic sheen to their skin.


• Characteristics: They exhibit a bright, almost glowing appearance and are similar to regular albinos in terms of sensitivity to light.

5. Melanoid

• Description: Melanoid axolotls are completely dark, with no iridescent pigments or shiny spots. They can be black or dark brown.


• Characteristics: Melanoids have a uniform coloration and lack the speckles or iridescence found in wild types.

6. Axanthic

• Description: Axanthic axolotls lack yellow pigments, resulting in a grey or silver appearance. They often have dark eyes.


• Characteristics: This morph can look similar to melanoids but with a slightly lighter, more metallic sheen.

Rare Axolotl Color Morphs

7. Copper

• Description: Copper axolotls have a unique brownish or copper coloration with dark eyes. Their pigmentation is due to a genetic mutation affecting melanin production.


• Characteristics: Coppers are relatively rare and highly sought after by enthusiasts.

8. Lavender

• Description: Lavender axolotls have a pale, purple-grey body with lighter spots. This morph can exhibit a shimmering, iridescent quality.


• Characteristics: The lavender coloration becomes more pronounced with age, making them a stunning addition to any collection.

9. Chimera

• Description: Chimeras are extremely rare and have a distinct appearance with two different color patterns on each half of their body, split longitudinally.


• Characteristics: Chimeras result from the fusion of two embryos, leading to a unique, often striking appearance.

10. Mosaic

• Description: Mosaics have a patchwork of colors and patterns, resulting from genetic anomalies during cell division. No two mosaics look alike.


• Characteristics: The irregular and unpredictable pattern makes each mosaic axolotl unique.

11. Piebald

• Description: Piebald axolotls have a predominantly white body with patches of dark pigmentation, usually around the head and back.


• Characteristics: This striking contrast of colors makes piebalds particularly eye-catching.

12. GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein)

• Description: GFP axolotls are genetically modified to express a green fluorescent protein, causing them to glow under UV or blue light.


• Characteristics: While not a natural morph, GFP axolotls are popular in research and among hobbyists for their unique glowing effect.

Conclusion

Axolotls come in a fascinating array of colors and patterns, each with its own unique charm. Whether you're a new hobbyist or an experienced enthusiast, the diverse range of axolotl color morphs offers something for everyone. Understanding these variations can help you appreciate the beauty and complexity of these remarkable amphibians, making your experience with them even more rewarding.