The Ultimate Guide to Axolotl Care: Creating the Perfect Habitat
Axolotls, also known as Mexican walking fish (though they are amphibians, not fish!), are fascinating and unique creatures. Their endearing smiles, feathery gills, and neotenic nature (retaining larval features into adulthood) have made them popular pets. However, these captivating amphibians require specific care to thrive. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about setting up and maintaining the perfect habitat for your axolotl.
## Understanding Axolotl Needs
Before diving into the specifics of setting up a tank, it’s crucial to understand the basic needs of an axolotl.
* **Water Quality:** Axolotls are highly sensitive to water parameters. They need clean, well-oxygenated water with a specific pH level. Ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels must be carefully monitored and controlled.
* **Temperature:** Axolotls are cold-water amphibians and thrive in temperatures between 60-68°F (15-20°C). Temperatures above 70°F (21°C) can cause stress and increase their susceptibility to disease. Sustained exposure to high temperatures can be fatal.
* **Diet:** Axolotls are carnivores and require a protein-rich diet. They eat a variety of live, frozen, or commercially prepared foods.
* **Substrate:** The substrate at the bottom of the tank is important for axolotl comfort and safety. Fine sand or bare-bottom tanks are recommended to prevent ingestion of gravel, which can lead to impaction.
* **Hiding Places:** Axolotls are nocturnal and prefer dimly lit environments. Providing plenty of hiding places helps them feel secure and reduces stress.
* **Tank Mates:** Axolotls are generally peaceful but can be nippy towards smaller tank mates. It’s best to keep them in a species-only tank or with carefully selected, similarly sized companions. Avoid any fish that might nip at their gills.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up an Axolotl Tank
Now, let’s break down the process of setting up an ideal axolotl tank into manageable steps:
### Step 1: Choosing the Right Tank
* **Size Matters:** A single adult axolotl requires a minimum of a 20-gallon long tank (30″ x 12″ x 12″). For two axolotls, a 40-gallon breeder tank (36″ x 18″ x 16″) is recommended. More space is always better, as it helps maintain water quality and reduces stress.
* **Material:** Glass or acrylic tanks are suitable. Glass is more scratch-resistant, while acrylic is lighter and more impact-resistant.
* **Placement:** Choose a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight and high-traffic areas. Sunlight can raise the water temperature and promote algae growth.
### Step 2: Selecting a Filter
* **Importance of Filtration:** A good filter is essential for maintaining water quality. It removes waste, debris, and harmful chemicals like ammonia and nitrite.
* **Types of Filters:**
* **Sponge Filters:** Excellent for axolotls because they provide gentle filtration and don’t create strong currents. They are also inexpensive and easy to maintain. Opt for a dual sponge filter for larger tanks.
* **Canister Filters:** Offer powerful filtration and can be customized with different media. However, they can create strong currents, so use a spray bar or lily pipe to diffuse the flow.
* **Hang-on-Back (HOB) Filters:** Convenient and easy to install, but may not be as effective as sponge or canister filters for larger tanks. Choose a model with adjustable flow to minimize currents.
* **Filter Media:** Use a combination of mechanical (sponge), chemical (activated carbon or ammonia remover), and biological (ceramic rings or bio-balls) media for optimal filtration. Make sure your filter is rated for a larger aquarium than what you have, to ensure proper filtration of waste.
* **Cycling the Tank:** Before introducing your axolotl, you must cycle the tank to establish a beneficial bacteria colony that will convert harmful ammonia and nitrite into less toxic nitrate. This process typically takes 4-8 weeks. You can use ammonia drops to start the process. Test the water regularly with a liquid test kit to monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. The tank is cycled when ammonia and nitrite consistently read 0 ppm, and nitrate is present. During the cycling process perform regular partial water changes.
### Step 3: Choosing the Right Substrate
* **The Substrate Debate:** The ideal substrate for axolotls is a topic of debate among keepers. The primary concern is the risk of impaction if the axolotl ingests gravel or small stones.
* **Recommended Options:**
* **Fine Sand:** Fine sand is generally considered the safest option. Ensure it’s aquarium-safe sand without sharp edges. Axolotls can sift through the sand without ingesting large pieces.
* **Bare-Bottom Tank:** Some keepers prefer to keep their tanks bare-bottomed. This makes cleaning easier and eliminates the risk of impaction. However, it can be less aesthetically pleasing and may cause the axolotl to feel less secure. Consider adding decorations for enrichment.
* **Substrates to Avoid:**
* **Gravel:** Gravel is a major impaction risk and should be avoided at all costs.
* **Large Stones:** Any stones that are small enough for the axolotl to ingest but large enough to cause a blockage should be avoided.
### Step 4: Adding Decorations and Hiding Places
* **Creating a Comfortable Environment:** Axolotls need hiding places to feel secure and reduce stress. Decorations also add visual appeal to the tank.
* **Suitable Decorations:**
* **Caves:** Provide artificial caves made of resin or plastic. Ensure they have smooth edges and no small openings where the axolotl could get stuck.
* **Driftwood:** Adds a natural touch and can provide hiding places. Soak driftwood in water for several days before adding it to the tank to remove tannins that can discolor the water.
* **Live Plants:** While axolotls may uproot plants, some keepers have success with hardy species like Java fern, Anubias, and Marimo moss balls. These plants can help improve water quality and provide oxygen. Tie Anubias and Java Fern to decorations rather than planting in the substrate. Marimo Moss balls can be placed on the sand.
* **Artificial Plants:** Silk plants are a good alternative to live plants. They are easy to clean and won’t be eaten by the axolotl. Avoid plastic plants with sharp edges.
* **Arrangement:** Arrange decorations in a way that provides plenty of hiding places and breaks up the line of sight. Avoid overcrowding the tank.
### Step 5: Setting Up Lighting (Optional)
* **Axolotls and Light:** Axolotls prefer dim lighting as they are nocturnal. Bright lights can cause stress and make them hide more often.
* **Lighting Options:**
* **No Light:** Many keepers choose to keep their axolotl tanks without any lighting. This is perfectly acceptable as long as the room provides some ambient light.
* **Low-Intensity LED:** If you want to add lighting for viewing purposes, choose a low-intensity LED fixture. Use a timer to limit the lighting to a few hours per day. Red or blue light options are less stressful for axolotls.
* **Placement:** Position the light fixture above the tank, ensuring it doesn’t overheat the water.
### Step 6: Installing the Filter and Heater (if needed)
* **Filter Installation:** Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the filter. Place the filter intake in a location where it can effectively remove debris from the water. Position the filter output to minimize strong currents.
* **Heater Considerations:** Heaters are generally *not* needed for axolotl tanks unless your room temperature frequently drops below 60°F (15°C). If you do need a heater, choose a submersible heater with a thermostat and a guard to prevent the axolotl from burning itself. Place the heater near the filter to distribute the warm water evenly.
### Step 7: Filling the Tank and Adding Water Conditioner
* **Water Source:** Use dechlorinated tap water or spring water. Do *not* use distilled water, as it lacks essential minerals.
* **Dechlorination:** Always use a water conditioner to remove chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals from tap water. These chemicals are toxic to axolotls. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage.
* **Filling the Tank:** Slowly fill the tank with water, avoiding disturbing the substrate and decorations. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the tank.
### Step 8: Monitoring Water Parameters
* **Importance of Testing:** Regular water testing is crucial for maintaining a healthy axolotl tank. Test the water at least once a week using a liquid test kit.
* **Key Parameters:**
* **Ammonia (NH3):** Should be 0 ppm.
* **Nitrite (NO2):** Should be 0 ppm.
* **Nitrate (NO3):** Should be below 20 ppm. Perform a partial water change when nitrate levels exceed 20 ppm.
* **pH:** Should be between 6.5 and 8.0. Axolotls prefer a slightly alkaline pH.
* **Temperature:** Should be between 60-68°F (15-20°C).
* **Water Changes:** Perform partial water changes (20-30%) once a week to remove nitrates and replenish essential minerals. Use dechlorinated water that is the same temperature as the tank water.
### Step 9: Acclimating Your Axolotl
* **Gentle Introduction:** Once the tank is fully cycled and the water parameters are stable, you can introduce your axolotl. Float the bag containing the axolotl in the tank for 15-30 minutes to equalize the temperature. Slowly add small amounts of tank water to the bag every few minutes to acclimate the axolotl to the water chemistry. Gently release the axolotl into the tank. Avoid pouring the water from the bag into the tank.
* **Observation:** Observe your axolotl closely for any signs of stress or illness during the first few days. Look for signs of healthy behavior, such as active swimming and eating.
## Axolotl Diet and Feeding
* **Carnivorous Diet:** Axolotls are carnivores and need a protein-rich diet.
* **Food Options:**
* **Live Foods:** Earthworms, blackworms, and bloodworms are excellent live food options. Ensure the earthworms are pesticide-free.
* **Frozen Foods:** Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia are convenient and nutritious. Thaw the food before feeding.
* **Commercial Axolotl Pellets:** High-quality axolotl pellets are a good staple food. Look for pellets that are specifically formulated for axolotls and contain a high percentage of protein. Repashy Grub Pie is also a good option.
* **Feeding Frequency:** Feed juvenile axolotls daily and adult axolotls every other day.
* **Portion Size:** Feed your axolotl an amount of food that it can consume in 2-3 minutes. Remove any uneaten food to prevent water contamination.
* **Supplementation:** While a varied diet is usually sufficient, you can occasionally supplement with vitamins and minerals.
## Common Axolotl Health Issues and Prevention
* **Fungal Infections:** Characterized by fluffy, cotton-like growths on the skin or gills. Treat with methylene blue or salt baths.
* **Bacterial Infections:** Can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin lesions, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Treat with antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.
* **Impaction:** Caused by ingesting gravel or other indigestible materials. Prevent by using fine sand or a bare-bottom tank.
* **Ammonia Poisoning:** Caused by high levels of ammonia in the water. Prevent by maintaining good water quality through regular water changes and proper filtration.
* **Stress:** Can be caused by high temperatures, poor water quality, or aggressive tank mates. Reduce stress by maintaining optimal water parameters and providing a peaceful environment.
*Preventative Measures:*
* **Quarantine:** Always quarantine new axolotls for at least 30 days before introducing them to your established tank.
* **Regular Observation:** Observe your axolotl daily for any signs of illness.
* **Proper Handling:** Avoid handling your axolotl unless absolutely necessary. If you must handle it, use a soft net or gently scoop it up with your hands. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling.
## Choosing Tank Mates (Proceed with Caution)
* **Species-Only Tank:** The safest option is to keep axolotls in a species-only tank. This eliminates the risk of aggression or incompatible water parameter needs.
* **Considerations:** If you choose to keep axolotls with other animals, consider the following:
* **Size:** Tank mates should be similar in size to the axolotl to prevent the axolotl from being eaten or the tank mates from nipping at the axolotl’s gills.
* **Temperament:** Choose peaceful tank mates that won’t harass the axolotl.
* **Water Parameters:** Ensure that the tank mates have similar water parameter requirements as axolotls.
* **Potential Tank Mates (With Caution):**
* **White Cloud Mountain Minnows:** Some success has been reported, however, they may become food. Ensure they are large enough to not be eaten and monitor them for fin-nipping
* **Ghost Shrimp:** Can be kept with adult axolotls, but they may be eaten. Provide plenty of hiding places for the shrimp.
* **Tank Mates to Avoid:**
* **Fish with sharp barbs or aggressive tendencies:** Any fish that may nip at the axolotl’s gills should be avoided.
* **Snails:** Many snails have shells which are too strong for axolotls to digest causing impaction if consumed.
* **Other Amphibians or Reptiles:** Generally not compatible due to different care requirements and potential aggression.
## Breeding Axolotls (Advanced)
* **Requirements:** Breeding axolotls requires a dedicated breeding tank, stable water parameters, and a healthy, well-fed pair of axolotls. Axolotls typically breed when the water temperature is slightly cooler than usual.
* **Process:** The male will deposit spermatophores (sperm packets) on the substrate, and the female will pick them up with her cloaca to fertilize her eggs. The female will then lay eggs on plants or other surfaces.
* **Egg Care:** Remove the eggs from the tank to prevent the parents from eating them. Hatch the eggs in a separate container with clean, well-oxygenated water. Feed the hatchlings live baby brine shrimp and daphnia.
## Conclusion
Keeping axolotls can be a rewarding experience. By providing a proper habitat, maintaining good water quality, and feeding a nutritious diet, you can ensure that your axolotl thrives for many years. Remember to research thoroughly, be patient, and enjoy the unique charm of these incredible amphibians. Regular maintenance and observation are key to a long and healthy life for your axolotl. Don’t hesitate to join online communities and forums dedicated to axolotl care to learn from experienced keepers and share your own experiences.
Good luck with your axolotl keeping journey!