GFP Axolotl: How the Fluorescent Gene Works

GFP axolotls carry a gene that makes them glow bright green under ultraviolet or blue light. It is one of the most visually spectacular traits in the axolotl hobby and has a fascinating scientific origin.

What Is GFP?

GFP stands for Green Fluorescent Protein. It was originally discovered in the jellyfish Aequorea victoria in 1962 and has since become one of the most important tools in biological research. The scientists who developed its use won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2008.

GFP was introduced into axolotl populations in laboratory settings for research purposes. When cells containing GFP are illuminated with UV or blue light (wavelength ~395-475 nm), they emit a bright green fluorescence (peak emission ~509 nm).

How GFP Axolotls Look

Under normal lighting: identical to their base morph. A GFP leucistic looks like a regular leucistic. A GFP wild type looks like a regular wild type. This is what people often mistake for a blue axolotl when photographed under UV light.

Under UV/blue LED light: the entire body glows bright green. The intensity varies by morph:

The gills, limbs, and tail tend to glow most intensely because the skin is thinnest there.

Care for GFP Axolotls

GFP axolotls require exactly the same care as non-GFP morphs. The gene does not change any aspect of their biology.

Important UV light guidelines:

• Only use UV/blue light for brief viewing sessions (a few minutes at a time)
• Do not leave UV lights on permanently, as axolotls are sensitive to bright light
• Use a separate UV strip or flashlight rather than replacing tank lighting
• Blue LED strips mounted outside the tank work well for viewing

Price

GFP adds a premium to any morph:

GFP is inherited and breeds true. If both parents are GFP, all offspring will be GFP. If only one parent carries GFP (heterozygous), approximately 50% of offspring will be GFP. Learn about all available axolotl colors and morphs to find the right one for you.