Dendrobaena worms (Dendrobaena veneta), sometimes known simply as Dendros, are widely regarded as one of the best natural foods for axolotls. They provide a nutritious, high-protein diet while encouraging natural hunting and feeding behaviour, making them an excellent staple food for both juvenile and adult axolotls. If you're looking for live Dendrobaena worms for your axolotl, you can view our range here.
Every axolotl is different, so feeding requirements will vary depending on age, size, activity level and water temperature. The guide below provides a good starting point, but you should always adjust feeding to suit your individual axolotl's appetite and body condition.
Juvenile Axolotls (3–7 inches / 7.5–18 cm)
Juvenile axolotls are growing rapidly and should be fed once a day.
Offer 1–3 small Dendrobaena worms per feed, or cut larger worms into smaller sections that are easy to swallow. Remove any uneaten food promptly to help maintain good water quality.
Sub-Adult Axolotls (7–9 inches / 18–23 cm)
Sub-adult axolotls can usually be fed once a day or every other day, depending on their growth rate and appetite.
Most axolotls of this size will happily eat 2–4 medium Dendrobaena worms per feed.
Adult Axolotls (9+ inches / 23+ cm)
Healthy adult axolotls generally require feeding 2–3 times per week.
Most adults will eat 1–3 medium to large Dendrobaena worms per feed. Rather than feeding a fixed number of worms, adjust the quantity to maintain a healthy body condition.
Feeding Tips
- Offer worms whole wherever possible.
- Cut larger worms into smaller sections for juveniles or smaller axolotls.
- Remove uneaten worms promptly to help maintain good water quality.
- Feed according to your axolotl's appetite, size and overall body condition.
- Store live worms in a cool place and keep the bedding slightly damp but not wet. For more information, see our guide, How to Store Dendrobaena Worms.