Tank Set Up: Comprehensive Guide for Axolotls
Jan 30
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Setting Up the Perfect Aquarium Environment for Your Axolotl
Axolotls, the fascinating aquatic amphibians, require a carefully curated environment to thrive in captivity. Setting up an aquarium that meets their specific needs is essential for their well-being and longevity. This article will guide you through the process of creating an optimal habitat for your axolotl, covering the essential elements of substrate, decor, filters, live plants, and more. In addition to this article, please read our Tank Cycling article.
Aquarium/Tank Itself:
Remember that a minimum of 40 gallons is needed for a single axolotl. Floor space is more important than volume, so we recommend a 40 gallon breeder tank that is more deep than long.
If housing more than one axolotl, an additional 10-20 gallons per axolotl should be added at a minimum. Axolotls should only be kept together if both are at least 18 months old and have been identified as the same gender, and they are 1-2 inches apart in size. Opposite genders of axolotls, and axolotls of significant different sizes, we do not recommend to be housed together.
Substrate
The substrate, or bottom layer of the aquarium, plays a crucial role in providing a comfortable and safe environment for axolotls - creating grip for them, and harboring beneficial bacteria for the nitrogen cycle. Choose a substrate that is soft and smooth, such as fine, natural sand like THIS. Avoid sharp or abrasive materials that could damage their delicate skin, and avoid small pebbles or ANYTHING they can fit in their mouth. They WILL eat it! This can cause impaction and, at worst, death. Bare bottom tanks are ok, and recommended for any axolotl under 6 inches in length. For larger axolotls, this can be slippery. If you want to avoid sand, the only other recommendation have is slate tile that has no sharp edges.
If using sand, be sure to rinse it really well before adding to your aquarium to avoid dust, cloudiness, and potential contaminants. This is very important. Sand should not be more than 1" deep, and should be occasionally stirred to avoid poisonous air pockets from forming.
2. Non-Plant Decor & Hides
Decorations provide hiding places - as axolotls don't have eyelids and are sensitive to light - stimulation, and aesthetic appeal to the aquarium. Decorating your tank is also the most fun part! Make it your own and get creative.
Choose decor that is made of aquarium safe material. Avoid sharp edges or protruding objects that could injure the axolotl. Consider including caves, tunnels, and other varied safe items and enriching environment. For almost everything we put into our tanks, whether aquarium-safe or not, we sand down all edges and surfaces using THESE and typically seal the items with THIS just to be safe.
Additionally, Terra Cotta pots are commonly used and safe, as well as PVC Pipe Joints. Anything you choose should not have holes that your axolotl could get stuck in, and be sure to place items in a safe place where they won't fall over.
If you use any items you've found outside, make sure they are of a safe size and texture. Make sure to rinse in very hot (primed, preferably) water, scrub with something only used for your aquarium, and if necessary, vinegar can be used to disinfect if rinsed WELL and left out in the direct sun to dry fully before introducing. If using driftwood, sanding is recommended and note that many types of wood contain "tannins," which are not harmful to your axolotl, but will turn your water dark red/brown.
If you'd like some suggestions that we have used (after sanding and sealing,) see here:
At the end of the day, use your best judgement and common sense. Do research, think about all the things that have touched or could be present on/in an item, and think of potential harm factors. Don't ever use soaps or cleaners on items that will go in your tank.
3. Filters
A reliable filtration system is essential for maintaining water quality in the aquarium. Choose a filter that is rated for the size of your tank and provides both mechanical and biological filtration. Mechanical filtration removes solid waste from the water, while biological filtration helps break down harmful ammonia and nitrites. Note: Axolotls need DOUBLE filtration. Meaning, if you have a 50 gallon tank, you need filtering capability for 100 gallons.
There are three types of filters to consider:
Sponge filters
Hang-on-back filters
Canister filters
There are pros and cons to each of these options, and combining them is often a good idea. For example, in smaller aquariums, combining a sponge filter like THIS ONE and a hang-on-back filter like THIS ONE (up to 55 gallons) can be effective. Hang on back filter for larger aquariums: HERE
Alternative hang on back filter option: HERE (up to 70 gallons)
Sponge filters are great for providing surface area for beneficial bacteria and trapping larger contaminants, but aren't the most effective for a large bioload such as that an axolotl will produce. Hang on back filters will be more effective, but axolotl are sensitive to strong currents and can be stressed by excessive water movement, so output flow should be turned down, and/or interrupted by media as it's dumped back into the tank.
Remember that for sponge filters, you will also need an air pump like THIS and airline tubing, like THIS.
Canister filters iike THIS ONE (up to 45 gallons,) or THIS ONE (larger tanks) are going to be your most effective, but unfortunately most expensive, option. If using a chiller, they can be used in combination to run through both machines. You'll also want the accompanying spray bar system for output, like THIS. We will cover this more in depth in another article.
All filters require maintenance in one way or another. If cleaning a filter or its cartridge, do not use anything but tank water. We typically do this during water changes once some aquarium water has been removed. Filters need to stay wet as they harbor much of your beneficial bacteria. We discuss this more in our Tank Maintenance article, and for questions regarding the nitrogen cycle or bacteria, refer to our Tank Cycling article.
4. Chillers & Fans
Axolotls need cool water not just to be happy, but to survive. The ideal water temperature is between 59 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above 72 degrees can be deadly. Quick changes in temperature can be stressful for your axolotl, so keeping a stable, cool, safe temperature is of the utmost importance.
Aquarium fans are an option if the environment around their tank stays fairly cool, about 70 degrees or cooler. Keep in mind that a mesh or grate lid will be necessary for the fans to work properly 1. to reach the water, 2. to move heat away from the water that rises, and 3. to prevent your axolotl from being able to jump out of their aquarium (oh, no!) In addition, fans will cause water evaporation faster than other options. It can be difficult to maintain stable temperatures this way, but it will be your most cost-effective option.
Fans like THESE can be effective if outer environment allows.
Chillers are a more effective and stable way to keep your aquarium safe and cool, but will be a costlier option. They can also be used in conjunction with a canister filter, if you decide to use one. We recommend THIS chiller up to 49 gallons (they're currently offering a $50 coupon,) and THIS chiller for anything larger.
If you decide to purchase either fans or another cooling method without a thermometer, you'll want one like THIS.
5. Live Plants
Live plants not only enhance the beauty of the aquarium but also provide numerous benefits for axolotls. Plants help oxygenate the water, absorb ammonia and nitrates, and provide hiding places and shelter. Choose plants that are safe for axolotls, such as Java fern (HERE), Anubias (HERE), or Hornwort (HERE.) Lucky bamboo is another option (HERE.) Plants like duckweed (HERE) and frogbit (HERE) are great for floating on the surface, providing the same benefit while also creating some shade from any light you might decide to place on the tank.
When using live plants, we recommend thorough rinsing and quarantining them as sellers may be unaware of pests like snails infesting plants that you don't want to introduce to your tank. Be aware of the health of your plants - decaying plant matter will spike your ammonia.
For information regarding air stones, necessary chemicals, filter media, water parameters and testing, and cycling your tank (absolutely necessary before introducing your axolotl to their new home!) Please read our Tank Cycling article after this one.
Some smaller items we recommend grabbing now:
Turkey Baster for Spot Cleaning (dripless)
Aquarium Siphon for Water Changes
Regular maintenance of your aquarium is crucial for keeping the aquarium clean and healthy for your axolotls. We will cover this in our Tank Maintenance article!
By following these guidelines, you can create an optimal aquarium environment for your axolotl, ensuring their health, happiness, and longevity in captivity. We hope this was helpful!
Please note that products here are recommended by us, tried and true - but are not sold by us. You are welcome to do some research into alternative options for products - just make sure they're axolotl safe! Aquarium/fish safe does NOT = axolotl safe. We do, however, receive a small commission if you use the links above to make your purchase. As an amazon affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.
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