Do Axolotls Glow In The Dark? If Yes, Why?

A common norm revolving around Axolotls states that “Axolotls glow in the dark.” But do you think that these adorable aquatics can actually glow?

Axolotls, or the Walking fishes, are a type of Salamanders found in the canals of Mexico City. These creatures have been a subject of fascination for animal lovers and a matter of research for scientists alike. Axolotls are known for their ability to regenerate their lost body parts. But there’s another fascinating story associated with them that states Axolotls glow in the dark. This statement has puzzled many, and since Axolotls aren’t as common and obvious as other aquatic creatures, the answer to this is lesser known. 

Some people claim that Axolotls emit a faint glow in the dark, whereas multiple individuals remain skeptical about the same. In the past decade, even scientists have begun researching the matter closely. Lately, scientists have started using sophisticated imaging techniques for studying the skin and cells of Axolotls before they conclude if these creatures actually glow in the dark. 

As A General impression Axolotls are not bioluminescent, which means they do not generate their own shining light. Instead, axolotls that glow under certain conditions have a genetic material called Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) in their cells.

What do you think? Come join us as we dive deeper into this mystery. 

Do Axolotls Glow? Myth or Truth

Not all Axolotls, but some specific Axolotls do have the ability to glow in the dark. 

A modified coloration of Axolotl can glow under specific light conditions. Some specific Axolotls, the GFP Axolotl, are known for their ability to grow in the dark, especially when they are exposed to Blacklight or UV light. GFP stands for Green Fluorescent Protein. These Axolotls aren’t a specific species but the same Axolotls with Albino, a rare genetic disorder. GFP Axolotls have a unique protein in their body that makes them glow in the dark. However, it is important to note that even GFP Axolotls aren’t Bioluminescent, and thus, they cannot create their own glowing light. 

GFP Axolotl has a specific gene that s responsible for the synthesis of the Green Fluorescent Protein. This gene is common and noticeable in many creatures in the wild; however, it isn’t present naturally in Axolotls’ DNA. According to claims, Hillary Maddin, a paleontologist at Carleton University, brought normal salamanders and bred them with green fluorescent ones. The GFP Axolotls are basically lab-modified ones. Hillary Maddin extracts one piece of a glowing salamander and grafts it into a non-glowing salamander.

What Light Do Axolotls Glow Under?

Some Axolotls with GFP protein can glow in the dark under ultraviolet (UV) light conditions. As the fluorescent proteins in Axolotls’ skin and cells will absorb UV light, they will emit a greenish-blue glow that is visible under UV illumination. However, not all axolotls are capable of glowing. And even the GFP Axolotls that are capable of glowing may not exhibit the trait consistently.

Though some Axolotls glow under UV light, not all UV light. It is important to use UV light that produces the same level of fluorescence in axolotls. Besides that, every individual GFP axolotl may need different wavelengths of UV light in order for the fluorescent proteins in their body to glow.

Nonetheless, Axolotls’ ability to glow under specific lighting conditions is a fascinating phenomenon. It has captured the attention of scientists and animal enthusiasts alike and has been a matter of research and learning for a long.

Do Axolotls Glow Under Black Light?

Yes, GFP axolotls can glow in the dark under black light. Blacklight is basically a type of ultraviolet (UV) light that, when it falls on GFP Axolotls, start emitting a greenish-blue glow. The Green Fluorescent Protein in their skin and cells will absorb the UV rays emitted by black light and display a visible glow in the dark. 

However, the intensity of the glow and color of the fluorescence while glowing depends upon certain factors. It is the age, sex, and genetic makeup of the Axolotl that can either produce diffused fluorescence or a more subtle one. There are chances that the glow in Axolotls’ body under the dark can be limited to specific parts, including the tail and gills. 

GFP Axolotls can glow under black light, and this phenomenon has led to research in the fields of genetics and biotechnology. Scientists and researchers are looking forward to studying the mechanisms behind axolotl fluorescence. Doing so will further help them gain insight into the genetic and biochemical processes of cell growth and regeneration. This can further help in several medical researches as well. 

What Parts Of The GFP Axolotl’s Body Glow?

The GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) is present throughout Axolotls’ body. The Axolotls, which are genetically modified to express fluorescent proteins, will display a greenish-blue glow under the influence of ultraviolet (UV) or black light. Their body parts like skin, gills, head, limbs, and tail will start glowing, emitting fluorescence. However, the intensity and distribution of the fluorescence can depend upon Axolotl’s age, sex, and genetic makeup.

Is It Safe For Axolotls To Glow? Are GFP Axolotls Healthy?

Axolotls that are genetically modified with GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) for expressing fluorescent protein are generally considered as healthy. This phenomenon is safe on Axolotls’ side since the amphibian doesn’t go through any type of pain, stress, or discomfort. 

However, it is crucial to mention that the use of genetic modification in animals is a controversial topic. This type of practice in Axolotls or other animals is complex and controversial and may have potential ethical and environmental implications.

According to a lot of studies, the introduction of fluorescent proteins via genetic modification doesn’t appear to have any significant impact on Axolotl’s health. In fact, GFP axolotls have been a valuable source for scientists who are into studying cell growth, regeneration, and disease.

But again, at the same time, it is important to ensure that the modification of GFP in axolotls must be done in a responsible manner within ethical practices. In addition, the care of GFP axolotls should also be focused upon.

Factors like animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental impact must be kept under consideration. Besides that, genetically modified animals are heavily regulated, and it is important to know this before taking a step forward in this direction. Some countries have strict guidelines and protocols concerning Axolotls in both pet, breeding, and research involvement.  

How Much Do Glowing Axolotls Cost? 

The cost of glowing axolotls isn’t very high. However, it may depend upon factors like Axolotls’ age, gender, color, and genetic makeup. The cost may also fluctuate depending on the breeder or seller.

On average, a glowing axolotl (GFP Axolotl) may cost anywhere from $70 or more.

Are Glowing Axolotls Rare?

Axolotls presently are considered rare since they fall under critically endangered species that are on the verge of extinction. Glowing axolotls, on the other hand, are genetically modified yet again considered to be rare and unusual. 

In the wild, the ability to emit natural fluorescence is limited to some animals, and Axolotls are rarely among them. Whereas in captivity, the production of fluorescent axolotls isn’t very old, and thus, they are again rare in numbers. It is still a new and specialized field, and to produce such Axoltol’s expertise in genetic engineering and animal breeding is a must.

Axolotls that glow are usually sought after for scientific research or by collectors and hobbyists. Caring for this type of Axolotls may require specialized knowledge and resources. Therefore unless and until you aren’t an Axolotl expert but have a chance to pet a glowing Axolotl, think twice. Their ownership should only be undertaken by Axolotl experts who have genuine interest and commitment and know how to care for their wellbeing.

Wrapping up…

Overall, Axolotls do glow in the dark, ideally the GFP Axolotls. However, Axolotls cannot glow on their own, and they will display fluorescence only under specific UV light, for instance, Blacklight. 

It is also important to know that GFP axolotls aren’t found in the wild but are a product of genetic modification. So if you spot an Axolotl glowing in the dark, remember it is a genetically modified one.