Holtfreter's solution explained

Holtfreter's solution (Holtfreter's medium) is a balanced salt solution that was developed by the developmental biologist Johannes Holtfreter for studying amphibian embryos and to reduce bacterial infections.^[1] As a specialised aqueous solution, it finds use in aquaria to prevent infections for early stage amphibians, where it is typically mixed with soft tap water.^{[2] [3]} Amphibians such as axolotls prefer a hard water solution.

Composition

Molarity of the component salts are as follows:

	0.059 M
	0.00067 M
	0.00076 M
	0.0024 M

Notes

• https://www.msu.edu/user/eisthen/lab/methods/animalcare/holtfr.html [link now dead]

References

• Armstrong, J.B., Duhon, S.T., and Malacinski, G.M. (1989) "Raising the axolotl in captivity". In J. B. Armstrong and G. M. Malacinski (eds.) Developmental Biology of the Axolotl. New York: Oxford University Press, pp. 220–227.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Johannes Holtfreter, 1901—1992. A Biographical Memoir by John Gerhart. National Academy of Sciences (USA).
2. Web site: Axolotls - Requirements & Water Conditions in Captivity . Axolotl.org . 2011-03-29.
3. Web site: Indiana University Axolotl Colony . Ambystoma.org . 2011-03-29.