Black Dots - Leucistic

[MickyO]

So, a Google search of "axolotl is covered with black spots" reveals many, many forum discussions and articles about "normal colour change" and "mature freckles" and "try any anti-bacterial/anti-fungal" and "what's your water parameters"... and I've read nearly all of them! But, I am still none the wiser about what these little black spots are.

My Axolotl is over 2 years old and has been pretty happy up until recently. These black spots have rapidly developed, and blanketed much of his head, back and chin. Water parameters seem good, except that he has been hot (25-26C) - water chiller now keeping him comfortable at (19-20C).

The reason I post this is that I have not seen an image where the black spots are as dark or as widespread, and are continuing to spread. I have used Melafix, and Blue Planet Tri-Sulfa with seemingly no change/effect/improvement. The little fella is a bit skinny (I figure its increased metabolism and stress from hot water) but he is still loving his daily dose of bloodworms!

So, does anyone have any ideas on what this is? Is it just colour change or is it heat stress or is it an infection?

Thanks

 

[PatchworkClocks]

Well, to me that looks normal, but I haven't had an leucistics myself and I haven't personally seen any that look quite like that. So unfortunately I can't provide much insight on it.

However, in the future, PLEASE don't use anymore medications or chemicals on your axolotl! Those medications are not axolotl-safe, and usually cause more harm than good. If you didn't get it prescribed by a vet, you shouldn't be using it on your axolotl.

 

[snuggly time]

Welcome,

I'm glad you got the chiller started, she should soon fatten up with a lower temperature. Also, earthworms are a good nutritionally staple diet for axolotls and they love them. Mine soon fattened up after changing from bloodworm to earthworms.

Those freckles are impressive! I wouldn't say they are anything to worry about. Adding chemicals to the water isn't a good idea with axolotls. They have sensitive skin, so the only chemical needed is dechlorinator, unless a vet instructs you to use some for medical conditions.

Also, I don't mean to nag, but gravel is not a suitable substrate for axolotls. They will swallow it which may lead to digestive problems and impaction. Sand is much better if you want to use a substrate.

Good luck. :happy:

 

[MickyO]

This little fella has always been a cleanskin, up until theses spots rapidly developed. Yes, these medications were not prescribed by vet, prescribed by aquarium/fish shop - advice taken! Thanks

The gravel is an ongoing debate/issue isn't it. I accept it is not ideal, but *touch wood* I have had no issues, and there's two years of history/learning/knowledge in there for the little fella.

 

[PatchworkClocks]

This little fella has always been a cleanskin, up until theses spots rapidly developed. Yes, these medications were not prescribed by vet, prescribed by aquarium/fish shop - advice taken! Thanks

The gravel is an ongoing debate/issue isn't it. I accept it is not ideal, but *touch wood* I have had no issues, and there's two years of history/learning/knowledge in there for the little fella.

I'm not trying to hassle you or anything, but you should really reconsider about the gravel. Just because nothing has happened yet, doesn't mean something still can't happen in the future. I'm just trying to look out for your axolotl's well-being.

 

[layna]

Just putting my two cents worth in, gravel isnt an ongoing debate it is a big no no for axolotls!
Bare bottom, sand or large pieces of slate are best for an axie
Earthworms are defiantly the best staple for an adult axie, blood worms wont be nutritionally enough for the big guy and thats why he is too thin, switch to earthworms or axie pellets asap and try to get his tummy the same width as his head

 

[snuggly time]

Yeah it's certainly not a debate. There's so many threads on here of suffering axolotls who have eaten gravel. One member actually found gravel in her axies poo for months after changing to sand.

I think this is one of the threads I will never forget.

http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-be...ick-axolotl/92100-new-owner-pic-question.html

I wouldn't dare wait and see if this happened to my axie, I'd prefer to be safe rather than sorry.

 

[geron]

Everything about this Axie reminds me of AntiVenom, from it's stance to the colors.