Have you ever been curious about what it would be like to own an exotic pet? Well, why not consider the Axolotl or the Bearded Dragon? These two animals make great exotic pets, and each has its own unique characteristics that make them stand out.
In this article, we will be discussing the Axolotl and the Bearded Dragon in detail, so that you can make an informed decision as to which one may be the best fit for you and your family.
When looking at both the Axolotl and the Bearded Dragon, it is important to note their differences. For starters, the Axolotl is an aquatic salamander, while the Bearded Dragon is a terrestrial lizard.
The Axolotl can grow up to 12 inches in length, and they can live up to 10 years in captivity. On the other hand, the Bearded Dragon can grow up to 24 inches in length, and they can live up to 12 years in captivity.
Both of these animals are relatively low-maintenance pets, with the Axolotl requiring less attention than the Bearded Dragon. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which one is the better fit for you and your family.
What Are the Similarities Between Axolotl and Bearded Dragon?
Both axolotl and bearded dragons are medium-sized animals, with the axolotl reaching up to 12 inches in length and the bearded dragon reaching up to 24 inches in length.
In terms of lifespan, axolotls can live up to 15 years while bearded dragons can live up to 10 years. Lastly, both animals prefer similar temperatures, between 68 to 80°F.
Size
Transitioning from the discussion of differences between Axolotls and Bearded Dragons, we now turn to the comparisons in size between these two animals. Generally speaking, Axolotls are much smaller than Bearded Dragons.
On average, Axolotls only grow to be around 6-10 inches long, while Bearded Dragons can grow to be anywhere between 12-24 inches long. This makes Axolotls significantly smaller than Bearded Dragons.
Additionally, when looking at the two animals side by side, it is clear that the Axolotl has a much slimmer and longer body compared to the stockier, broader build of the Bearded Dragon. This further contributes to the significant size difference between the two animals.
- Axolotls typically grow to be 6-10 inches long
- Bearded Dragons typically grow to be 12-24 inches long
- Axolotls have slimmer and longer bodies than Bearded Dragons
The size difference between these two animals is quite remarkable and reveals a stark contrast between them.
Lifespan
With their unique physical features, Axolotl and Bearded Dragon share much in common, including their lifespan. While Axolotl can live up to 15 years in a well-maintained environment, Bearded Dragon can live up to 10 years in a properly managed environment.
Both species require regular care and attention, and the lifespan of these species is largely dependent on the health and quality of care they receive.
The average lifespan of a healthy Axolotl or Bearded Dragon can be broken down into the following categories:
- Axolotl:
- Wild: 4-5 years
- Captivity: 8-15 years
- Bearded Dragon:
- Wild: 6-8 years
- Captivity: 8-10 years
Ultimately, providing the right environment and care for these animals is the best way to ensure they reach their full lifespans.
Temperature
When discussing the similarities between axolotl and bearded dragons, we are drawn to the similarities in their temperature requirements. Both species require a temperature between 68-84°F, so proper heating is essential for the health of both animals.
When considering the temperature for each species, it is important to note that:
- Axolotl – They prefer to have a temperature range of 66-72°F.
- Bearded Dragon – They prefer to have a temperature range of 75-86°F but require a basking area around 90-95°F.
It is important to maintain the temperature for both species, as too cold or too hot of temperatures can lead to health complications.
Furthermore, both species require a temperature gradient within their habitat, so they can move to warmer or cooler spots as they choose. A thermometer is an essential tool to ensure the temperature is maintained properly.
What Are the Differences Between Axolotl and Bearded Dragon?
When looking at the differences between an axolotl and a bearded dragon, one of the most obvious distinctions is their diet. While the axolotl primarily subsists on aquatic invertebrates, the bearded dragon is an omnivore and consumes both plants and insects.
Additionally, axolotls are much smaller than bearded dragons, with the former reaching 8-10 inches in length and the latter reaching up to 20 inches. Lastly, the lifespan of an axolotl can be up to 15 years, while that of a bearded dragon is typically only about 8 years.
Diet
Though Axolotl and Bearded Dragon have some similarities, they also have some major differences, particularly when it comes to diet. Bearded Dragons are omnivores and eat a variety of foods, while Axolotls are carnivores and eat mainly protein-rich foods.
- Bearded Dragon:
- Omnivore
- Eat a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, insects, and other small animals
- Axolotl:
- Carnivore
- Eat mainly protein-rich foods such as worms, insects, and small fish
It is important to know the dietary needs of Axolotl and Bearded Dragon to ensure they receive the proper nutrition to stay healthy. Not providing the correct diet can lead to malnutrition and other health issues.
Therefore, it is important to research the dietary needs of each animal before providing them with food.
Size
One key difference between the axolotl and the bearded dragon is their size. While the axolotl is a relatively small amphibian, the bearded dragon is a medium-sized lizard.
- Axolotl:
- Average length: 5-10 inches (12.7-25.4 cm)
- Average weight: 2-3 ounces (56.7-85 g)
- Bearded dragon:
- Average length: 18-22 inches (45.7-55.9 cm)
- Average weight: 8-12 ounces (227-340 g)
The axolotl is significantly smaller than the bearded dragon, making them an ideal pet for those who have limited space. On the other hand, the bearded dragon requires more space and is best suited for those who have the ability to provide adequate habitat.
Additionally, the axolotl is a relatively low-maintenance pet, while the bearded dragon requires more intensive care.
Lifespan
Moving on from the similarities between axolotls and bearded dragons, we’ll now explore the differences between the two animals. One of the major aspects in which axolotls and bearded dragons differ is their lifespan.
Axolotls can live up to 15 years in the wild or in captivity, whereas bearded dragons usually live for 8-10 years. An axolotl’s lifespan in the wild depends on factors such as environmental conditions, availability of food, and predators.
In captivity, the lifespan of an axolotl is dependent on the quality of care they receive. Bearded dragons can live up to 12 years in captivity if they are provided with the proper care.
The duration of life for axolotls and bearded dragons differs in the following ways:
- Axolotls
- In the wild: up to 15 years
- In captivity: up to 15 years
- Bearded Dragons
- In the wild: 8-10 years
- In captivity: up to 12 years
It is important to take into account the different factors that affect the lifespan of each animal, such as environmental conditions, availability of food, and quality of care. Proper care and maintenance can help axolotls and bearded dragons live longer and healthier lives.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Physical Appearance
At first glance, an Axolotl and a Bearded Dragon may appear to be quite different from one another, but upon further inspection, similarities between the two species become clear. From physical appearance to lifestyle, let’s explore the differences and similarities between these two attractive animals.
The Axolotl is a salamander native to lakes around Mexico City. It is an amphibian, meaning it lives both in water and on land. It has a long, slender body that is usually a greenish-brown color, with black speckles on its head and back.
Its face is small and expressive, with large, black eyes. Axolotls can grow up to 12 inches long and live up to 10 years in captivity.
The Bearded Dragon, on the other hand, is a reptile native to the deserts of Australia. It has a thicker body than the Axolotl and is usually a light brownish-orange color with darker stripes along its back.
Its face is larger and its eyes are a pale yellow color. Bearded Dragons can grow up to 24 inches long and live for 8-10 years in captivity.
Despite their physical differences, there are a few similarities between Axolotls and Bearded Dragons: both animals are cold-blooded, meaning they rely on their environment to regulate their body temperature; both species are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and small animals; and both are solitary animals, preferring to live alone or in small groups.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Behavior
While physical appearance is important when it comes to the comparison between an axolotl and a bearded dragon, behavior is also a major factor in determining which pet is right for you.
The way these two animals act can be vastly different, and it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.
Axolotls are generally docile creatures that spend most of their time hiding, as they are nocturnal animals. They can be inquisitive and sometimes even friendly, but they prefer to stay hidden when possible. They are also somewhat independent, so they don’t need quite as much attention as other pets.
Bearded Dragons on the other hand are diurnal animals, meaning they are active during the day. They are very social creatures that enjoy interacting with their owners and other bearded dragons.
They also require more attention than axolotls, as they are more dependent on their owners. They require regular handling and socializing in order to remain friendly.
When it comes to behavior, the differences between axolotls and bearded dragons are quite noticeable. If you are looking for a pet that requires minimal attention and is relatively independent, an axolotl is a great choice.
However, if you want a pet that is more social and requires more attention, a bearded dragon may be the better option.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Diet
When it comes to the diet of these two creatures, axolotls and bearded dragons, there is a notable difference between the two. While both are carnivorous, the Axolotl is an opportunistic feeder, meaning that it will consume whatever is available.
On the other hand, Bearded Dragons are a bit more selective and typically prefer live prey.
The Axolotl’s diet consists mainly of worms, insects, and other small creatures that inhabit the same body of water. It is important to provide them with frozen or live food as part of their diet, as this will provide them with the necessary nutrients.
A balanced diet for an Axolotl should include earthworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, bloodworms, and other such food sources.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, have a much more varied diet. It should include a variety of live proteins such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. Additionally, they should also be provided with a variety of vegetables and fruits.
Leafy greens, squash, carrots, and other vegetables should be included in the diet, as well as small amounts of fruits like apples and blueberries. A balanced diet for Bearded Dragons should also include some calcium and vitamin supplements to ensure they stay healthy.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Enclosure
While diet is an important aspect in the care of both axolotls and bearded dragons, another important factor is their enclosures. Different enclosures will be needed for each species, and even between individual animals within each species, depending on the age and size of the animal.
Bearded dragons, or Pogona Vitticeps, are a species of lizards that originate from Australia. They require an enclosure that is large enough in size for them to move around in, as well as plenty of climbing and basking areas.
Bearded dragons are found in the wild in deserts, so they need to have access to a basking area that is around 90-100°F, as well as a cooler area of about 75-85°F. The enclosure should have plenty of hiding spaces and the substrate should be chosen carefully. Sand should never be used as it can cause impaction if ingested.
Axolotls, or Ambystoma Mexicanum, are a species of salamanders that originate from Mexico. They require an enclosure that is large enough in size for them to move around in and should contain plenty of hiding spots.
Axolotls need a temperature around 55-65°F and should have an aquarium filter to keep the water clean. The substrate used should be easy to clean, as axolotls are prone to eat whatever is on the bottom of the tank. Gravel is usually the best option.
Overall, both species have different needs when it comes to their enclosures, so it is important to research and provide the best environment possible for them.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Lighting
Having discussed the enclosure requirements for both Axolotls and Bearded Dragons, the next factor to consider is lighting. Bearded Dragons are naturally found in desert climates and require a bit more light than Axolotls, which do not require any direct light.
Bearded Dragons require a basking light on one side of the enclosure that provides at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit. A full-spectrum light that produces both UVA and UVB rays is also recommended to prevent metabolic bone disease. The lighting should also be on a timer so that it remains consistent with the natural sunlight cycle.
Axolotls, on the other hand, do not require any direct light. They do, however, need a 12-hour dark period each day. This can be achieved with a timer for the light in the room that the enclosure is kept in, or with a black sheet draped over the enclosure for a portion of the day.
Overall, the lighting requirements for Axolotls and Bearded Dragons are different, but both are important to ensure that the pet is healthy and happy. With the correct setup, both animals can thrive in captivity.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Handling
In addition to the lighting requirements, it is also important to consider the handling of the Axolotl and Bearded Dragon. It is essential for their health and safety that their respective handling requirements are respected.
Axolotls should be handled with great care. They are fragile and can easily become injured or stressed during handling. They also require frequent water changes, so it is important to understand the proper techniques for handling them.
It is also important to note that Axolotls have sensitive skins, so it is important to wear gloves when handling them.
Bearded Dragons have a more robust nature compared to Axolotls and can tolerate handling better. It is important to note that they still need to be handled with care and should not be roughly handled.
It is also important to note that they can become stressed if handled too much and they should not be handled for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. When handling Bearded Dragons, it is important to keep them close to the ground and to wear gloves if necessary.
Axolotl vs Bearded Dragon: Lifespan
Having discussed the handling of Axolotls and Bearded Dragons, it is pertinent to look at their respective lifespans. In this regard, Axolotls can live up to 15 years, while Bearded Dragons have an average lifespan of 8-10 years.
The Axolotl is a very hardy species, and if provided with the proper living conditions, can live for many years. They should be kept in aquariums with clean, filtered water and plenty of hiding places.
They also require a temperature of around 65-72°F. Furthermore, they need to be fed a variety of food, such as small worms, frozen shrimp, and fish food pellets.
Bearded Dragons, on the other hand, can live for a shorter amount of time than Axolotls. They also need to be kept in a habitat with temperatures between 75-85°F.
To stay healthy, they should be fed a variety of live insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. It is also important to provide them with vegetables and fruits to ensure a balanced diet.
In conclusion, both Axolotls and Bearded Dragons can live for a long time if provided with the proper care. The key to a long and healthy life for either species is to make sure that their habitat is kept clean and that their diet is well balanced.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a pet, it’s important to weigh all the options and look at the similarities and differences between the two. Both the Axolotl and the Bearded Dragon require different levels of care, but they both make great pets.
Whether you decide to pick an Axolotl or a Bearded Dragon, you can be sure that either one will bring you years of enjoyment. Making the right choice for you or your family is important, so take time and be sure to research the pet that best suits your lifestyle and needs.