Albino axolotl is one of the most sought-after and fun aquatic pets. Due to being critically endangered and its eyesight issues, this one has a dedicated fan base passionate about preserving it.
This axolotl stands out with its light body, white color, red gills, and pink or white eyes. It’s the perfect pet for those with a good experience in fishkeeping.
Want to know more? Let’s dive into their fascinating realm.
Note: Albino axolotl can be looked after like any other typical axolotls. So, if you want to adopt one, grab our detailed guide on axolotl care.
Brief History
Albino axolotls have evolved naturally and are also created in labs by cross-breeding axolotls with albino tiger salamanders, using advanced techniques like nuclear transplantation and gonadal grafts.
Researchers use them in experiments, treating them with a special protein to create GFP, a glowing variant.
Appearance
Albino axolotls are unique because they lack color, appearing almost transparent and completely white. However, their overall appearance also varies a lot based on their type.
Types of Common Albino Axolotls
There are only two common types of common albino axolotls in the market. They are:
White Albino Axolotl
They have white bodies, red gills, and either pink or white eyes. They start off very light, almost see-through; their bellies are especially transparent where internal organs are visible. But, as they grow up, their gills turn redder while their bodies stay white.
They resemble leucistic axolotls and have iridophores in their gill branches, giving them a unique and iridescent quality.
Due to their rarity, they are highly sought after by enthusiasts. They are found at a higher price due to their scarcity in the wild.
Golden Albino Axolotl
They begin as white, too, but as they get older, they change into a lovely golden-yellow color. Their gills can be red, pink, or match their body color, and their eyes are often red but occasionally transparent.
It lacks melanophores, the pigment cells responsible for dark colors. Some fish of this variant even sport shiny stripes or dots on their bodies.
Types of Rare Albino Axolotls
The albino variant of axolotls comes in various exotic and rare color morphs as well, like:
Copper Axolotl
These variants show another type of albinism due to partial pigment loss. They result from the lack of Tyrosinase enzyme. The enzyme is responsible for oxidizing pheomelan (red pigment) to eumelanin (dark color).
Instead, they have orangish spots, which make a distinctive tannish tone with a coppery hue. Their eyes are red and reflective, not black.
Axanthic Albino Axolotl
Axanthic albinos lack not only melanophores but also xanthophores (yellow pigment cells) and iridophores (shiny pigment cells), making them nearly white.
They develop a subtle yellow hue with age due to the accumulation of riboflavins from their diet, showcasing the dynamic nature of these creatures.
Melanoid Albino Axolotl
While a non-albino melanoid would typically appear black, these axolotls are stripped of most of the pigment. This leaves only a faint hint of yellow xanthophores on the head and back. Due to the combination of melanism and albinism, there are no iridophores.
Golden Red Albino Axolotl
They are known for their adorable reddish-golden color and red gills. As juveniles, they may appear pure white, making it tricky to differentiate, but their golden color becomes apparent as they reach adulthood. This is one of the rarest types.
Special Care
Axolotl’s generally have poor eyesight. But albino axolotls have severe eyesight issues compared to other breeds. But unlike most myths, they’re not blind.
The limited eyesight allows them to see only a few colors with a blurry vision. They are also highly sensitive to light.
So, it’s essential to keep them in a tank with gentle lighting, like a dimmed UV light. It’s crucial not to expose them to direct sunlight or excessive indoor light, as it can disturb their eyesight and cause stress.
You can gauge their vision by offering live food and observing how far they can spot their prey.
Availability
Albino axolotls are rare in the wild but can be found in pet stores. Among the albino types, golden albinos are rarer and more unique in color compared to pure white ones.
Average Cost
The price can vary between $25 to $215, depending on the location and breeder. Golden variants are usually priced premium, $150 or more.
The cost also depends on the pet store, the availability and their size. Young ones are cheaper, but they require more frequent feeding, which adds to the overall cost.
A word from FIA
In summary, albino axolotls make exceptional additions to aquariums due to their unique appearance and friendly demeanor.
Despite their weak eyesight, they interact well with owners, adding to their joy. If you provide proper care and meet their specific needs, they’ll thrive happily and offer a rewarding experience.
If you found this information useful, kindly pass it on to other axolotl enthusiasts. If you need more assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us via email. Wishing you the best of luck with your albino axolotl!