Here’s a basic checklist of what you should see in every axolotl tank.
Size. One adult axolotl will require a minimum of a 2 foot long tank. This equals to about a 20g aquarium in the long dimensions however some axolotls can reach over a foot in length so more is always better to allow them to reach their full growth potential. Personally I recommend no smaller than a 2.5 foot long tank which will be about 30-40g. You’ll need an extra foot of floor space which is approximately 10 more gallons for each additional axolotl.
Lid. Axolotls can make quite calculated jumps so they will require a lid. I suggest using a lid that allows airflow into the tank rather than a fully closed aquarium hood which will trap warm air. You can use reptile terrarium screen lids or egg-crate cut to size.
Filters. Axolotls are dirty creatures who have very large bioloads. Unlike fish their turds are too heavy for most filters to pick up so it’s suggested to filter your aquarium for 3 times the size it actually is. Spot cleaning turds as you see them will still be necessary but the triple filtration will protect you if you miss one and it gets stomped. Axolotls don’t like too much flow so you may need to adjust it. I suggest keeping a mechanical filter as well as a sponge filter in every tank.
Temperature. Since axolotl need consistently cold temperatures you’ll need a method to do this and a thermometer to keep an eye on it.
Hides. Because axolotls don’t like light they require hides to feel safe. It’s recommended to have at least two hides per axolotl. These can be anything from ceramic pots, mugs, aquarium safe reptile caves or decor, pvc pipes and even large mason jars. Plants can be amazing in axolotl tanks for keeping nitrates in check however it can be tricky as you’ll need to find plants that do well in low light and cold water.
Substrate. Never use gravel with axolotls!! They cannot pass it through their digestive track. Stick to bare-bottom or fine sand. Note: axolotls under 6 inches should only be kept on bare-bottom as even fine sand is an impaction risk at that size.
16 окт 2024
