When I started looking into the best food for my axolotl, I kept seeing people mention nightcrawlers. At first, I wasn’t sure if feeding big worms was a good idea, but the more I learned, the more it made sense.
Nightcrawlers are packed with protein, easy to find, and pretty close to what axolotls would eat in the wild. In this article, I’ll share everything I found out about using nightcrawlers for axolotls—from why they’re great to how to feed them the right way.
Are Nightcrawlers Good for Axolotls?
When I first heard that axolotls could eat nightcrawlers, I was kind of surprised. I always thought worms were just for fishing. But after reading more, I found out that nightcrawlers (the big, juicy earthworms) are actually one of the best foods for axolotls.
They’re full of protein, easy to digest, and way more natural than some of the stuff sold in stores. At first, I was nervous to feed them because of their size, but I just cut the worm into smaller pieces—no longer than 3 inches—and my axolotl loved it.
If you’re looking for something healthy and close to what they’d eat in the wild, nightcrawlers for axolotls are a great choice.
What Are Nightcrawlers?
Nightcrawlers, also known as Lumbricus terrestris, are large earthworms that live deep in the soil and usually come out at night. They’re different from red wigglers, which are smaller and sometimes give off a weird bitter slime when stressed—my axolotl didn’t like that.
Nightcrawlers don’t do that and are way meatier, which makes them a great food choice. I usually cut them into smaller pieces before feeding, and my axolotl loves them. You can find nightcrawlers at bait shops, buy them online from worm farms, or even grow your own at home if you want a steady supply.
If you’re thinking long-term, it’s worth learning how to make a worm farm so you always have fresh, healthy worms ready for feeding.
Can Axolotls Eat Nightcrawlers?
Yes, axolotls can definitely eat nightcrawlers, and honestly, they’re one of the best foods I’ve ever given mine. Nightcrawlers are packed with protein and nutrients that help axolotls grow healthy and stay active.
They’re totally safe as long as they’re clean and not too big—just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces if your axolotl is still young. When I was learning about caring for baby axolotls, I found out that smaller worms or chopped nightcrawlers work best for them, while adults can handle larger pieces easily.
Benefits of Feeding Nightcrawlers to Axolotls
Feeding nightcrawlers to my axolotl has honestly made a big difference. They’re high in protein and low in fat, which is perfect for keeping him healthy without overfeeding. I’ve noticed he digests them easily compared to other foods—no bloating or mess in the tank. What I love most is how they bring out his natural hunting behavior. He gets all excited, swims around, and grabs the worm like he’s in the wild. It’s not just food—it’s fun for him too.
How to Feed Nightcrawlers to Your Axolotl
When I first gave my axolotl a nightcrawler, I quickly learned that size matters—I always cut the worm into small pieces, around 2 to 3 inches, so it’s easier for him to eat without choking. He gets more excited when the worm is still alive and wiggling, but if your axolotl is picky or shy, you can use dead worms too—just move them a little with feeding tongs to catch their attention. Sometimes I even tap the water gently to make it feel like the worm is moving, and that trick works great for picky eaters.
Common Issues and Concerns
At first, my axolotl didn’t want to eat nightcrawlers at all—I think it was the slime coat that put him off. Some worms have a slimy layer that can taste bitter, especially if they’re stressed. What helped was rinsing the worm in clean, dechlorinated water before feeding, and sometimes even blanching it quickly in warm (not hot) water. Another thing I learned the hard way is not to overfeed. Nightcrawlers are rich, and giving too many can cause bloating or make your axolotl spit them out later. Now I just feed small pieces and watch his belly to make sure he’s not getting too full.
