If you’re thinking about getting an axolotl as a pet, you’ll need to purchase some supplies before bringing your new friend home. In this guide, we’ll outline everything you need to buy for your axolotl, from tanks and filters to food and toys. By following our tips, you can be sure that your axolotl will have a happy and healthy life!
The Tank
One of the most important things you’ll need to buy for your axolotl is a tank. Axolotls are semi-aquatic creatures, so they need a tank that is big enough for them to swim around in but also has some land area where they can rest. We recommend getting a tank that is at least 20 gallons in size to house one axolotl.
Tank size to the number of Axolotls
20 gallons – One axolotl
40 gallons – Two axolotls
50 gallons – Three to four axolotls
75 gallons – Five to six axolotls
100 gallons or larger – Seven or more axolotls
There are a number of tanks available from basic to starter tanks that include lants, filters, and lighting.
Now we have the tank sorted we should now look at filters.
Why are filters important?
A filter is important to maintain water quality and to help prevent the build-up of toxins in the water. Axolotls are sensitive to changes in water quality, so a good filter is essential for their health. There are a number of different types of filters available,
External canister filters are one of the most effective ways to filter a large volume of water and they are easy to maintain. We recommend getting a filter that is rated for at least twice the size of your tank. For example, if you have a 20-gallon tank, you should get a filter that is rated for 40 gallons or more.
Canister filters come in a variety of sizes and types. Be sure to get one that is appropriate for the size of your tank and the number of axolotls you have.
Another option for filtration is an internal power filter. These filters are less expensive than canister filters and they take up less space, making them a good choice for smaller tanks. However, they are not as effective at filtering large volumes of water, so we only recommend them for tanks that are 20 gallons or smaller.
No matter what type of filter you choose, be sure to clean it regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A dirty filter will not work as well and could even harm your axolotl.
Our thoughts on filters
From our experience, we prefer an internal filter and we use an Eheim model.
The advantages are that it is easy to clean the internal media and sponges compared to a bulky external filter.
Of course, the Eheim is made from German Engineering. The cost is slightly higher but remember. Buy cheap and buy twice.
See our choice at the bottom
Water temperature to keep an Axolotl
Axolotls are sensitive to changes in water temperature, so it is important to keep the water in their tank at a stable temperature. The ideal water temperature for axolotls is between 60 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. We recommend using an aquarium heater to maintain the correct water temperature. Be sure to get a heater that is appropriate for the size of your tank.
Aquarium heaters come in a variety of sizes and types. Be sure to get one that is appropriate for the size of your tank and the number of axolotls you have.
You will also need a tank thermometer that is easily attached to the inside of the tank so the temperature can be easily checked daily.
The type of tank lighting
Axolotls do not need special lighting, but you will need a light to see them. We recommend getting a fluorescent aquarium hood that fits your tank. Be sure to get a hood that has an appropriate size and type of bulb for the size of your tank.
Aquarium hoods come in a variety of sizes and types. Be sure to get one that is appropriate for the size of your tank and the number of axolotls you have.
You can also use an incandescent bulb, but be careful not to put it too close to the water as it can heat up the water and make it too warm for your axolotl.
We prefer LED aquarium lights because they are more energy-efficient and they do not produce as much heat as other types of bulbs.
No matter what type of light you choose, be sure to turn it off at night so your axolotl can get a good night’s sleep. For more convenience, we recommend using a timer so that the light will be on for a maximum of 12 hours a day. Any more than that then you risk an outbreak of algae.
Substrate
We recommend using plain and simple Play Sand. For more information on this, we have a full article on using play sand. Just Go Here.
Plants
We recommend using Fake Plants and again we have an article explaining the benefits of these types of plants. See it HERE.
What Decor will I need?
We also recommend avoiding any decorations with sharp edges as they could injure your axolotl’s delicate skin.
Aquarium rocks and driftwood can be used as decoration, but be sure to wash them thoroughly before adding them to the tank.
One drawback of driftwood is that it will need soaking in a bucket or bath for over a week otherwise it will just float.
Alternatively, you can weigh it down with some strips of Lead using Super Glue.
What types of food will I need?
Axolotls are carnivores and their diet should consist mainly of live food. We recommend feeding them a variety of live foods, such as earthworms, bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, and crickets. Be sure to gut-load any insects you feed them with nutritious food so that they can get the most out of their meal.
You can also feed your axolotl frozen or freeze-dried foods, but be sure to thaw or rehydrate them before feeding.
As a general rule of thumb, we recommend feeding your axolotl as much as they can eat in one sitting. They will usually stop eating when they are full.
Overfeeding can lead to health problems, so be sure to remove any uneaten food from the tank after each feeding.
We also recommend getting a container of live blackworms or earthworms and keeping them in your refrigerator. This way you will always have food for your axolotl, even if you can’t make it to the pet store right away.
Water Conditioner
It is important to use a water conditioner when setting up your axolotl’s tank. We recommend using a product that removes chlorine and chloramine from the water and makes it safe for fish and other aquatic creatures. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle carefully so that you add the correct amount of conditioner to the water.
You will also need to test the water regularly to make sure that it is still safe for your axolotl. We recommend using a digital aquarium test kit so that you can easily test the water and keep track of the results.
Bubbles
To make the tank look outstanding you can purchase an air pump with an air stone to create bubbling. This will also increase the levels of oxygen in the water.
Tank Water Changes How often and how to do it
You will need to change the water in your axolotl’s tank every week. To do this, you will need to remove about 30% of the water from the tank and replace it with fresh, clean water. Be sure to use a water conditioner when adding new water to the tank.
We recommend using a gravel vacuum cleaner to remove the dirty water from the tank. This will make it easier to get all of the dirt and debris out of the gravel.
After you have removed the dirty water, be sure to rinse off any decorations that were in the tank before putting them back in. This will help prevent any bacteria or algae from growing on them.
It is also a good idea to clean the filter media in a bucket of water from the tank. This will remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the media and help keep the filter working properly.
Be sure to dispose of the dirty water in a safe way so that it does not harm the environment.
What type of water should I use?
We recommend using distilled or reverse osmosis water for your axolotl’s tank. This type of water is free of impurities and will help keep your axolotl healthy. You can purchase distilled water at most grocery stores or online.
To see our article on Springwater Go Here
If you choose to use tap water, be sure to use a water conditioner to remove any chlorine or chloramine from the water. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle carefully so that you add the correct amount of conditioner to the water.
You will also need to test the water regularly to make sure that it is still safe for your axolotl. We recommend using a digital aquarium test kit so that you can easily test the water and keep track of the results.
To help you get set up we have listed our recommendations below. All of the items are what we use and are all available from Amazon.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has helped you learn what to buy for an axolotl. Be sure to research each item carefully before making a purchase so that you can find the best products for your pet.
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