Featured Image by Axolotl Deutschland
The mosaic axolotl is a one-of-a-kind axolotl owing to its captivating patterned black and white skin.
The uniqueness of the exotic pet lies in their appearance and size, setting them apart from other axolotls.
These creatures are low-maintenance and will be your companions for several years. Plus, they require the same care as regular axolotls.
Some fishkeeping experience will come in really handy for you if you wish to bring this one home. Curious to learn more? Let’s get in.
Note: If you get your hand on one and are ready to raise it, refer to our comprehensive, in-depth article on axolotl care.
What is the History of Mosaic Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls, a unique type of salamander, don’t occur naturally. They result from a mix of wild and leucistic morphs, creating their distinctive appearance. They are predominantly found in captivity, serving as pets.
Typically, mosaic axolotls come from parents that are a blend of albino or leucistic and melanoid, dark, or wild varieties.
Their unique colors emerge due to the fusion of two eggs into one, causing their body cells to display random colors from both parents. This randomness is the key to their extraordinary range of colors.
How does Mosaic Axolotl Look?
Mosaic axolotls are known for their striking black-and-white skin, often complemented by touches of gold. Their gills display vibrant red and purple stripes, and their eyes come in various colors.
These unique creatures can also appear in albino, leucistic, and melanistic variations. Albino mosaic axolotls have white skin and red eyes, while leucistic ones have pale skin and black eyes.
What is the size of Mosaic Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls are smaller than regular axolotls, usually 17-23 cm (7-9 in) long and weigh 140-340 g (5-12 ounces).
They grow slowly, reaching full size in 2-3 years. They need good water quality and a diet for healthy growth.
What are the types of Mosaic Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls come in 2 types: marbled and split.
1. Marbled Mosaic Axolotl
A Marbled Mosaic Axolotl has colorful spots and random patterns.
2. Split Mosaic Axolotl
Split Mosaic Axolotl are divided into black and white or light pink from the middle.
Which Mosaic Axolotl do People Prefer?
Many people like marbled axolotls because of their variety of colors, but both types are lovely pets.
Collectors prefer split colors, which fetch a higher price. Partial splits with rare colors are valuable but not as much as full splits.
Difference between Mosaic and Other Axolotls
Some axolotls have been confused with the mosaic one. Let’s know all the differences here.
What is the difference between Mosaic and Vitiligo Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls have white or light-colored skin patches due to a genetic mutation while Vitiligo is a common genetic condition causing loss of skin pigment in Vitiligo axolotls. The condition gradually changes the skin color of the axolotl and causes a patched shed. These axolotls are different and more common than mosaic axolotls.
What is the difference between Mosaic and Chimera Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls arise from a mutation after embryo formation from one zygote only while Chimera axolotls arise from the fusion of separate zygotes, uncommon in axolotls.
In Mosaic axolotl, the somatic mutation happens in the early developmental phase. These axolotls have patches of white or light-colored skin.
Chimera axolotls have two separate colorations due to multiple cell types that are entirely different.
What are the Concerning Health Issues of Mosaic Axolotl?
Proper care is crucial for mosaic axolotls’ health. Poor water quality and inadequate nutrition can lead to health problems and even death.
Mosaic axolotl babies might lack eyes. Their organs may shut down without proper care. Preexisting conditions in parents can pass on, causing significant health issues.
What is the Breeding Process of Mosaic Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls are made when two egg cells merge, creating a unique axolotl with colors from both parents. It’s a random genetic change that is not inheritable. So, breeding them isn’t easy without the right skills or knowledge.
However, these combinations of genes can lead to health problems, and mosaics are infertile, making breeding impossible.
Why are Mosaic Axolotl Rare?
Finding mosaic axolotls in pet shops is challenging because they’re rare and different from common types like pink, white, grey, or black.
They result from mixed parentage, making mass production difficult. They aren’t typically sold.
These are often infertile because they come from the fusion of two cells. Many breeders try mating leucistic and wild types. But there’s no guarantee of success, and they may not survive the mating process.
How to Buy Mosaic Axolotl?
Obtaining a mosaic axolotl can be challenging. It is purely a matter of luck since there are no known methods to intentionally create them.
Even experienced breeders face difficulties due to the unpredictable nature of this mutation. Certain axolotl pairings might increase the chances, but it’s still dependent on circumstances.
Look for specialty breeders at reptile stores or online axolotl shops. Research and find a trustworthy breeder before making a purchase.
Keep an eye out for auctions and act quickly when you find them, as they are hard to come by. Be prepared to pay a higher price due to their rarity.
What is the Cost of Mosaic Axolotl?
Mosaic axolotls are rare and expensive, ranging from $50 to over $2,000. The price varies based on color, age, and health.
Rare color combinations can fetch even higher prices, averaging around $1,450. The cost may go up further due to high demand from buyers.
What are the Alternatives to Having Mosaic Axolotl?
If you can’t find mosaic axolotls, consider other options like popular breeds or special ones such as:
- Enigma axolotl
- Piebald axolotl
- Chimera axolotl
There are also unique varieties to choose from, like:
- Black melanoid axolotl
- White albino axolotl
- Lavender axolotl
- Firefly axolotl
- Wildtype axolotl
- Copper axolotl
A word from FishInAquarium
Despite the extra care mosaic axolotls require, keeping them is a rewarding experience. Their unique beauty and captivating patterns make them a delightful addition to any aquarium.
In fact, they serve as marvelous conversation starters, owing to their genetic marvels. They bring endless fascination and companionship to pet owners.
If you found this information helpful and are intrigued by the idea of having a mosaic axolotl as your pet, please feel free to share this knowledge with others who might be interested.
If you have any more questions or need further assistance in the future, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email.
Wishing that your journey with your mosaic axolotl be filled with wonder and joy.
