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If you are a rare axolotl enthusiast, you must know about the piebald axolotl! The rare and creatively colored species will definitely pique your interest.
Caring for it is easy if you have some experience in fishkeeping. Moreover, it can be your companion for an extended period!
Though it needs the same level of attention as regular axolotls, it comes with a high price tag in the aquarium trade.
Note: If you can splurge on one of these salamanders, don’t forget to check our detailed guidance on axolotl care for its healthy upbringing and maintenance!
What is the History of Piebald Axolotl?
These are originally captive-bred axolotls. The distinctive appearance of piebald axolotls is caused by the movement of neural crest cells during early egg development.
The piebald gene, responsible for this unique pattern, is heritable, making breeding somewhat predictable. But creating a piebald is still exceptionally rare.
How does Piebald Axolotl look?
Piebald axolotls have thick, dark black spots on their translucent skin. They have patches of gray, black, and green on their face and back. This makes them look “piebald,” and hence the name.
These splotches of dark shades can be throughout their body, running downwards and even on the sides.
They have red gills and black or dark blue eyes, similar to spotty leucistic morphs. Due to similarities, leucistics are often mistaken for piebalds.
But piebald axolotls are distinct due to their pigmentation along their mid-body and sides. This sets them apart from those leucistic axolotls, where pigmentation is limited to the head and top area.
Piebald axolotls lack clear color groups like mosaic axolotls but develop a distinctive black-and-white pattern as they age. The colors may also darken with age.
Similar traits are commonly found in axolotls of some parts of New Zealand. But those are just dirty-looking leucistic variants, not piebalds.
What is the Cost of Piebald Axolotl?
The scarcity of piebald axolotls significantly influences their cost, with each specimen typically priced around $300 or more.
Piebald axolotls are a unique and sought-after variety due to their striking black-and-white coloration, making them exceptionally rare in the exotic pet market.
A word from FishInAquarium
The piebald axolotl stands as a testament to the wonders of nature, captivating the hearts of both scientists and pet enthusiasts alike.
This salamander not only adds a splash of beauty to any tank but also plays a significant role in scientific research.
The friendly nature of piebald axolotl, its ability to recognize and interact with caretakers, suitability for a species-only tank, ease of feeding, and straightforward care requirements make it an excellent choice as a pet.
If you found this information helpful, feel free to share this knowledge with others who might be interested.
However, if you have any more questions or need further assistance in the future, don’t hesitate to reach out via email. We’ll be happy to answer!
