Axolotls retain external gills on both sides of their body, along with a tail and body fin. This aquatic lifestyle means that axolotls cannot open or close their eyes like typical land mammals due to the lack of eyelids found in most amphibian species as adults. Let’s discover seven cutest axolotls in the world in this article.
1. White Albino Axolotl
White albino axolotls are one of the most popular types of pet axolotls. They have white skin with shiny golden flecks, giving them a unique and attractive appearance. These axolotls lack pigment compared to their normal counterparts, producing no color whatsoever in their skin or eyes. As such, they come in a range of different colors, including gold, white, and peach, depending on the genetics that created them. Furthermore, albino axolotls often have reflective spots along their bodies as well as pink gill stalks that may take on a yellowish tint in certain lightings. Because of their unusual visual features and relatively easy care requirements compared to other aquatic species, white albino axolotls have become highly sought-after pets all around the World!
2. Leucistic Axolotl
Leucistic axolotls are truly unique and beautiful creatures. They have translucent white bodies with shiny gold flecks, red or pink gills, and dark brown or black eyes. The stunning color combination of these axolotls sets them apart from other aquatic species. Unfortunately, they are very rare in the wild since their bright coloration makes them easily visible to predators. However, they are one of the most common morphs found in captivity due to the fact that breeders selectively choose this trait when breeding for specific colors and patterns. Despite their rarity in nature, the leucistic axolotl can be admired by many aquarists who keep them as pets thanks to dedicated breeders working hard to make sure this special morph is available for all to enjoy!
3. Golden Albino Axolotl
Golden albino axolotls are truly a sight to behold. Not only do they have an amazing golden yellow color, but they often exhibit shimmering pigments known as “iridophores” that really make them stand out from other morphs. They can range in hue from almost pure white to peach, yellow, and orange-gold. Their bodies may also contain reflective spots and speckles for added effect, with eyes of white, yellow, or pink, depending on the individual specimen’s genetics. As if all of this weren’t enough to swoon over, these gorgeous creatures even have peachy gills with a light yellow tint!
4. Piebald Axolotl
The piebald morph is a unique and fascinating axolotl color. It’s caused by partial leucism, which refers to the reduction of pigmentation in areas of the skin that usually appear white or translucent. There are usually dark green or black spots on the axolotl’s face and back, but they can sometimes appear on its sides and legs too. The distinguishing factor between a piebald axolotl and one with speckled leucistic markings is that there are an extreme number of spots on the body of a piebald axolotl. These spots may become darker over time until they eventually cover most of the body in alternating black-and-white patterns. This genetic trait can be passed down from generation to generation if both parents have it. However, this occurrence is very rare, so it’s often hard to find two genetically compatible parents who possess this gene!
5. Copper Axolotl
The copper axolotl is a beautiful, rare morph of the axolotl. It has a light gray-green body with copper-colored flecks that are spread evenly across its surface. Its eyes and gills are various shades of grey and red, respectively; this unique combination is caused by lower levels of melanin and other pigments in the skin. The copper morph is mainly found in the United States and Australia; it’s very rarely seen outside these countries. However, when crossed with other kinds of axolotls, they can produce some amazing color combinations!
6. Firefly Axolotl
The firefly axolotl is a unique and beautiful creature. Its darkly colored wild-type body contrasts starkly with its albino tail, which glows brightly under a blacklight. This luminescence gives the species its name – firefly axolotl – as only the tail will glow like that of an actual firefly. This vibrant display can be seen in aquariums, especially at night when the lights are dimmed or completely off to better view the spectacle of this species’ glowing tails!
7. Mixed Mosaic Axolotl
Mosaic axolotls are a unique type of axolotls that display an interesting mix of colors. They typically have black, white, and golden flecks across their body. The gills often feature stripes in red and purple which is even more stunning when paired with their multicolored eyes. Mosaic axolotls are the result of melanistic and albino parents being bred together, creating this unique combination of colors that make them such beautiful creatures!
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