How To: Sexing An Axolotl
Axolotls Under 1.5 Years of Age Can Not Reliably Be Sexed
Determining the sex of an axolotl can be a challenging task, as they typically do not exhibit clear sexual differences until they reach a certain age. Generally, axolotls can only be reliably sexed after they are approximately a year and a half old. Before this age, their sexual characteristics are not well-developed, making it difficult to differentiate between males and females. As axolotls mature, their reproductive organs become more distinct, allowing for a more accurate identification of their gender. It's important for axolotl owners and breeders to be patient and wait until the axolotls have reached this stage before attempting to sex them.
How To Sex An Axolotl
Once an axolotl reaches the age of about a year and a half, their sexual characteristics become more apparent. One way to sex them is by examining the size of their cloaca, a small vent located just behind their rear legs. Male axolotls typically have a more pronounced and larger cloaca compared to females. In contrast, females usually have a smaller and less prominent cloaca. In general, female axolotls tend to have wider bellies, often due to their larger body size and the presence of eggs. Conversely, male axolotls typically exhibit a flatter belly, with a slimmer appearance compared to females. While these physical differences can aid in sexing axolotls, it is important to note that they are not always foolproof, and some individuals may still be challenging to identify. In such cases, DNA or surgical sexing may be required for absolute certainty.
Example
Above are two photos of a pair of wild axolotls from the same clutch. The photo on the left is unmarked. The photo on the right is marked with circles showing what differentiates male axolotls and female axolotls. The female is a wild axolotl named Termenator and the male is a wild axolotl named Zoom.