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Thank you for the update!
Not sure if this has been shared, but you can help cycle the tank by using nitrifying bacteria like TopFinReadistart and Safestart a plus in addition to Dr Tim’s Ammonium Chloride.
The bacteria won’t establish themselves without a ready source of ammonia, and this ammonium chloride can help speed up the tank cycling time.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WSNYRDS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XK1QG3XZ23YZ1FTK0T36
I have used this and their cycling guide for countless tank setups-
Oh yeah, so Earthworms are what you should be feedung. they're like suoerfood, bloodworms are potato chipd. Cut up the worms to his size and feed until he stops taking them. It may take some convincing to switch. Check out my guide on https://wordpress.com/post/ancientaquatics.wordpress.com/215?retry=1
There's so other lot info as well. Don't worry too much he should still be able to grow once you've got him on the right diet.
You need to go see a vet. He is dying. You also need to get a water test kit like this. The water needs to stay between 15-18 Celsius. He should be eating earthworms at this point.
My Axolotl loves their Terra cotta pots. Cheap effective and if you need to you can even get paint and paint them. Also there's a cave on Amazon I got for mine. With the right positioning, it can be a very good dark space. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XCN71JD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
If you're doing daily changes and using a dechlorinator you'll be be fine but an ammonia spike may happen sooner rather than later. Your best bet is a sponge filter. Usually graded higher than the tank you're in (using a 20g get a 30+ sponge). A powerful air pump is also a good idea.
I use a 55 gallon double sponge (in a 33g long) that you can get on Amazon for 10 dollars. Will link the air pump for you if you are interested. Adjustable flow and 4 outlets for bubblers if you wanna use one down the line.
This sounds like a nightmare!! Why would you get the axolotls without a cycled tank?? That is very hard on those lil doods when they’re so little! I think they’ll make it, but run to the store and buy Seachem Prime and double dose your water to condition and help establish the tank quicker. If you have a 20 Gallon with 3 Axos in it, you HAVE to get more than a sponge filter, get a HOB filter meant for 20 Gallon, they’re literally like $30
Definitely daily 50% water change until you get a filter setup.
Any kind that is not powdered. I use long arm gloves from Amazon whenever I have to put my hands in the tank. I do not touch my LOTL at all. These are the gloves I use.
SYROVIA Household Arms Length Rubber Latex Cleaning Long Glove Reusable Kitchen Natural Rubber Living Wash Gloves https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5SZXDR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4YS4DQQK07FVBFZYYW1W
I had the same problem with fans and living in south Georgia. I ended up having to get a chiller because nothing else could keep it at a steady and acceptable temp. How big is your tank? Depending on how large it is, you may have to see if you can find a full-sized chiller on craigslist or FB marketplace if you can’t afford a new one. If you have something smaller, like 20-40 gallons, theres a smaller chiller on amazon thats $130. If your tank is closer to 40 gallons, you would probably need two to keep it at a reasonable temp so that would be over your budget but it’s better than $500. I hope you can find something that works for you!
IceProbe Thermoelectric Aquarium Chiller - 4 in. x 4 3/4 in. x 7 1/2 in. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001JSVLBO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BFFA8XSGASKZ9Z8DNQ5R
You’re welcome. In that Hikari sinking pellet it has copper (read bad for lotls) and iodate (iodine is bad for lotls, can cause metamorphosis). I have used Invert Aquatics Axolotl pellets before, and if you feed too many it can constipate. Not perfect ingredients, still has some filers, but not bad vitamins in it for LOTL. On Amazon, but may be currently out of stock. Invert Aquatics Soft Pellets for Axolotls - Moist Sinking Diet for Axolotl, Newts, Salamanders & Other Small Amphibians https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GLWP27H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DEGSS9C95CPZ000ATMHX
These are essentially the same.
They are Rangen trout pellets. That’s what the lab colony has fed their lotls.
Aquatic Foods Inc. Rangen 3/16" Salmon Pellets, Soft Moist Sinking Pellets for Axolotls, Shrimp & All Fish https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0787RJ1ZG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MEK6D0KJWE0SSXNTJ0PZ?psc=1
Ah okay, unfortunately if all the parameters are 0 then it is indicative of an uncycled tank. I would strongly recommend tubbing the axolotl in a plastic bin with daily 100% dechlorinated, temperature matched water changes until it is larger and your tank is cycled. Underground Reptiles is known for sending axolotls out way too young (like yours) and/or in poor health, which results in many DOAs and sick axolotls received by the buyer.
Since this axolotl is so young, it will need to be fed blackworms until it is 3 inches long in order to have proper nutrition. Once it is 3 inches long, it can start eating cut up earthworm and pellets.
You can order blackworms on Ebay
​
This blackworm bin makes keeping and cleaning blackworms much easier
What foods do you have for it right now? Has it eaten at all? What tap water conditioner are you using?
It's a ceramic oil burner I got it based on this video it worked really well, and I use the dish on top for messy food like blood worms.
We have some experience rearing little axolotl babies. They should be fine for up to 3 days after hatching with leftover nutrients from being in the egg.
When they are first hatched they will try to eat anything that moves, including each other somewhat. So they need live food that swims around. The eggs should be transferred into a new tank with a bubbler and no filter before they hatch to prevent the parents from eating them or them being sucked up in the intake. The best thing to feed them are brine shrimp (aka sea monkeys) and be sure to only get the shrimps and not the shells as they can tear open their little bellies. There is a nice bubbler kit for hatching the shrimps on Amazon (San Francisco Bay Brand ASF66190 Brine Shrimp Hatchery Baby Fish and Reef Tanks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004PBG68K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_tPVgBb9SKX12P) I would suggest getting 2 so you can always have one working when you feed everyday. Having a lamp above can provide heat to speed up hatching. We also used a light so we could draw the hatchings down to the bottom and scoop out the shells floating on top.
We ended up loosing some babies to a fungus outbreak so be careful with nitrate levels.
Good luck! They are so cute!
Would recommend this one: https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Clear-Power-Filter-AquaClear/dp/B000260FUM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1536260246&sr=8-2&keywords=aquaclear+filter
It would work good for a 20 gallon tank and it has an adjustable flow switch, so you can mess around with that to find the perfect flow for your axolotl, they are all different and it depends on the size. But it would never hurt to also have a sponge filter in there, but a single sponge filter isn't going to cut it as the only source of cleaning.
There are a few different ways. The big thing is getting a nice dose of ammonia in there. I struggled with cycling my tank at first too. I tried fish food. Nope. Guppies. Nope. Finally bought aquarium ammonia (Dr. Tim’s Aquatics Ammonium... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006MP4QG6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) and that did the trick! Once I added that, things took off much better!
So dose the water with that and give it a few days. Watch your ammonia and nitrite levels because eventually ammonia will start to drop but nitrite will go up. This is a good thing! Then your nitrites will start to drop and your nitrates will go up. You’ll want to do a 25% water change at the point when your nitrates get high. Then add more ammonia.
Keep doing this process over a period of a few weeks. The goal is for the ammonia to be turned to nitrite and then to nitrate in 24 hours.
Do you have a good water test kit? Not strips but the little test tubes that you mix? This one is great. API FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT 800-Test Freshwater Aquarium Water Master Test Kit, White, Single https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000255NCI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TRNRFSZMJXSPK85G8VGK
Thank you for this post, I did not know longer gloves existed. I do not touch my little guy but I clean up the bottom of the tank everyday and normal rubber glove were that little bit too short and the water would leek in so I didn't use them and just wash my hands before and after. Even though I've only had him for a week but I've noticed my skin becoming quite irritated from all the chemicals. I just ordered these ones, they're not specifically for aquariums but I don't handle him so I'm sure it's fine. Also they're in much nicer colours since I'm going to be wearing them multiple times a day hehehe https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XRFS6F9/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_o00\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
IMHO since people don’t scrub like surgeons, generally speaking any glove would be much safer. Also, soaps can leave all sorts of residue, oils, disinfectants on the skin that can be harmful to a LOTL. These are what I use. As long as you wash them when you first get them, and wash them as you use them, there shouldn’t be any issue.
SYROVIA Household Arms Length Rubber Latex Cleaning Long Glove Reusable Kitchen Natural Rubber Living Wash Gloves https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y5SZXDR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_FXMYR7FJB375T9QBTNDA
You can always buy another desk fan, or check the humidity of the room. A drier room means that the tank can get cooler thanks to the gas exchange provided by the fan. I use this fan myself.
Using clip on fans is much more recommended than aquarium fans, as many aquarium fans break easily or aren't powerful enough. I use this one. Water bottles are only a temporary solution as they melt pretty fast. If you can put it underground or in a cool room this helps too, as well as keeping it away from windows.
Fans are gonna be a cheap option for cooling the water, as well as keeping them in a cool, dry room or underground. I've found this combo to be very effective and I live in a similar climate.
Perhaps try a different fan? I use this one. It works well but I also am in different conditions. You may need to invest in a chiller, though, if you've had these problems for so long. Trying multiple fans also seems like a good idea! I'm really glad you're trying to fix the problem if it matters.
I would not suggest getting a chiller unless you are willing to invest a lot of money, live in a perpetually hot area, or have a large tank you are trying to keep cool. Typically if you have a basement putting the tank in there works well, or just keep a room cool, and you can get a fan and put it on the side of the tank for significantly cheaper. Fans will bring the temp down a couple degrees.
They're both so cute!
I know you're probably really sick of unsolicited advice by now so sorry in advance.
Make sure you are prepared and always one step ahead, these guys grow really fast so plan your next tank before they even need it. My axolotl literally doubled in size in 6 months and is still growing rapidly. I went with a 40 gallon tank (12" x 24" x 36") from the start just to be safe even though I only have the one.
Another thing is don't underestimate the size of the filter you will eventually need. (in the pics yours looks plenty big enough for now though). I use a 400L per hour canister filter connected to a spray bar so the flow isn't too strong and it helps aerate the water. These guys are so just so messy but definitely worth the upkeep as they are great pets.
Finnaly, I'm sure you've probably kept fish before so really sorry if this comes across as condescending but definitely buy a good liquid water testing kit and get into the habit of regular tests. It's actually one of my daughters favourite parts doing "aquarium science" as she calls it. We even have a log book to record the results, schedule maintenance, track water changes and make sure the parameters stay consistent. I'll link the log book we use below because it's super cute.
Apologies for this massive post because I'm sure you've already done your own research, hope you have loads of fun watching Jelly and Bean grow up.
"I'm Just a Girl Who Loves Axolotl Aquarium Log Book: Fish Tank Journal, Aquarium Maintenance Notebook, Freshwater Fish Care: Amazon.co.uk: Publishing, Sealberdy's Fish: 9798633163421: Books" https://www.amazon.co.uk/Just-Girl-Loves-Axolotl-Aquarium/dp/B086PVQZ18
I have the same problem too. But what has been helping is getting something to raise the gh if you have well water or reverse osmosis like I do. I’ve done this and mine boy has had a lot less problems. A good gh range is 7-14 degrees. (I have know idea why they measure in degrees.) and API sells gh and oh tests kits that can be found at your pet store or on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/API-TEST-Freshwater-Aquarium-Water/dp/B003SNCHMA/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=gh+api&qid=1623260311&sr=8-3 And I see you’ve been putting in crushed coral so you might not need to add anything.
Foam is the same as bio media, if you notice your filter seems clogged or gunked up or its been a while you can take it out and clean it off in tank or dechlorinated water. Never replace it as it's where almost all of your bacteria live.
Foam is the first line of defense and has a good amount of bacteria, it takes the big gross stuff out of the water, the next layer should be bio rings which hold A TON of bacteria.
https://www.amazon.com/Fluval-Biomax-Bio-Rings-ounces/dp/B000HHSG5M
Make sure to get a filter media bag to put them in.
You can usually fit a bag of them right over the sponge in your filter, if not I'd recommend swapping your filter for something that can be customized like the Aquaclear.
Id recommend swapping that filter anyway as it's way too weak.
Filters that say they're for a 20 gallon really mean 5-20 gallon, which really means 5 gallon. It's a marketing trick, it only works because that would be good for a 20 gallon if nothing was living in the tank lol. In reality especially for an axolotl you want at minimum a filter for a 50 gallon.
I'd recommend Aquaclear 50 or Aquaclear 70, it's what I use.
That one is definitely too small though.
I also have a 20 gallon tank for my axie and this is the sponge filter I have: https://www.amazon.ca/Powkoo-Aquarium-Sponge-Filter-90063-L/dp/B078SLKRRV it works well, took about 5 weeks to properly cycle. If the filter it came with was previously in use I’d recommend using that filter atleast while cycling since it probably already has some healthy bacteria in it and will help speed up your cycle.
As for the chiller, I personally don’t use one even though the room I keep him in is a bit warmer. I just have a good fan constantly blowing across the top of the water which keeps it cool around 64° F
They help with cloudy water
I was actually using Stony River as well before I learned it’s actually gravel- unfortunately some companies advertise their substrate as sand when in reality, it’s too big. :/ I highly recommend switching to CaribSea Supernaturals when he gets a bit older, which is what I’m using now. Here’s a link! https://www.amazon.com/Carib-Sea-Natural-Moonlight-Aquarium/dp/B00UIDUAF4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=caribsea+supernatural+moonlight&qid=1620624471&sr=8-2
Unfortunately axies are very clumsy and will definitely ingest substrate over a period of time. I really hope this helps! :)
My light set-up isn’t anything fancy. I didn’t want to spend a ton because it’s off 95% of the time. Hopefully the link works but this is what I purchased.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F6XD2FH?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
They are Sinking Carnivor Pellets (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007QH89AI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_98Q0C1JG03DNKY43YPN5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1).
I've read a lot of mixed reviews on these pellets the main thing being that they're more like treats than a proper diet also some axies just don't like them because they're picky eaters. And the diet for your axie seems perfect. A lot of people have informed me the best diet for an Axolotl would be worms (the main one being nightcrawlers) and using these pellets as an occasional treat.
Hi! Are you not able to purchase it online somewhere? Like Amazon?
If not, I think you can just use fish food and let it decay into ammonia!
Hope this is helpful!
IEOKE Clip On Fan, Mini Desk Fan Portable Fan USB or Rechargeable Battery Operated Fans with 4 Speed Quiet for Baby Stroller Office Bed Desk Headboard Outdoors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088LDS28H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_kvRVFbX17D9RK?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I use! It’s under $10, adjustable, and super quiet 😁
Blood worms aren't a reliable staple for an adult axolotl. They are basically like candy. If you can't get earth worms, I'd recommend finding a good brand of axolotl pellets. Maybe Invert Aquatic's or Hikari's Carnivore pellets.
They will create bubbles to help oxygenate the water. The extra filtration could beneficial, but considering the plants, shrimp, and other filters, you don’t necessary need another filter.
You could look into something like a bubbler if you solely just want to create more bubbles though. It all just kinda depends on which you would prefer.
2-4 ppm every day? It's still at about 2 ppm as of right now, and I dosed it last Wednesday, so about 6 days. You're saying that I should put more ammonium in there?
This is what I dosed it with: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OTH5TAQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I wanted to find pure ammonia, but I figured this would be good enough? I know ammonia != ammonium, but I don't know if it makes a huge difference
This battery operated clip-on fan is wonderful. It cools multiple owners' 40 gallon tanks by 5-6˚F, but it also depends on the relative humidity where you live. It's definitely worth a shot though!
Note: needs some sort of extension cord because the cord it comes with is short
Not sure if we are allowed to link to Amazon, but I have two of these in my tank and I am liking them a lot.
I read somewhere (probably caudata.org) that Indian almond leaves are good to add to axolotl tanks. They give you a nice tea-color and add tannins but there's no brewing involved. You just chuck them in. https://www.amazon.com/SunGrow-Environment-Provides-Breeding-Improvement/dp/B07XYTQC4Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_17?dchild=1&keywords=betta+leaf+real&qid=1603729918&sr=8-17
PVC pipes make for great hides. Also check out this reptile hammock from amazon, my axies love it :)
Zoo Med Mesh Reptile Hammock, 14.2-Inch Length https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B001OVGPN0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NUNsBbHVKRBKG
This one fan was enough to drop my 40 breeder from 72 down to 63. (22 -> 17)
​
The general recommended tank size is 20 gallons long. But a few sites I've seen said that the absolute minimum is 10 gallons (or 37 liters).
Here's a link to an amazon page for a 20 gal long. https://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-Tank-Black-30X12X12-20L/dp/B0002AS21W/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1542777437&sr=8-4&keywords=20+gallon+long+aquarium. Generally I'd suggest looking around at major pet stores. They can often get equipment in cheap.
I found this link on Amazon but not sure if it's safe/too much for the water... https://www.amazon.com/Seachem-116044608-Equilibrium-300gram/dp/B0002A5WQA/ref=sr_1_2?camp=1789&creative=9325&keywords=000116044608&linkCode=ur2&qid=1557530866&s=gateway&sr=8-2
have you tried using any kinds of stress coats, like the api or seachem products? i do daily water changes on my axie, he’s still in his tub while the cycle is finishing and the stress coat/stress guard works really well. I also add a couple of hiding spots, like an underwater resin log https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FNMXBHF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_WYoHFbA1E9B0G , a tiny airstone, and I cover half the tub in a towel so that it’s not too bright for him. your tank looks a little bright, so I would suggest getting a dimmer or something like that. but since it’s a temporary tank, I would just cover up some of it in a towel to block out some of the light
This does the same thing but you start the siphon by pumping the bulb, and it only costs $8: https://www.amazon.com/DINY-Home-Style-Aquarium-Controller/dp/B07BHQT81W/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=gravel+vacuum+for+aquarium+with+pump&qid=1596862326&sr=8-4
I would take those guppies out- axolotl gill filaments look a lot like worms and the guppies with pick at/damage them.
Yeah, those are usually not the most accurate, you should really get a couple of the thermometers with a probe like these ones. It is always good to have more than one around. I have two of these ones and they both read the same exact temperature
These are on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L8ZFGSB/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_ClGhFbN4WHN4T I got one but Mudkip prefers his other decorations so I took it out. This is too great of a shot though!!
I would get two sponge filters. One for each side. When I pick out sponge filters I always pick one rated for a larger volume of water than needed. Here's what I've used https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051XIN78?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
You can find aquarium cool fans on Amazon. They can be loud but in my experience they've need very effective. Here's what I'm using https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DXHFI6W/ref=cm_sw_r_apap_xO8rvvSdArj1G
Let me know if you have any other questions!
test kit on Amazon did you research before you got youraxi??? Before you add an animal to an aquarium you should cycle it first to build up beneficial bacteria which will break down highly toxic ammonia and slightly less toxic nitrites.
I get mine from Amazon and the little bag I bought in December is only halfway gone now. And it's helped my axies gain weight :) They really like it, too. Here's what I got: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GLZJGTM/ref=cm_sw_r_apap_cgK9osKqcnQZV
This one is great, big enough and no metal so you don’t have to worry about rust. https://www.amazon.ca/Zoo-Med-Reptile-Hammock-17-5-Inch/dp/B0002AQDKO/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=21Y0W7I08V4Q5&keywords=repti+hammock&qid=1671351591&s=amazon-devices&sprefix=repti+hammock%2Caps%2C100&sr=1-1
I would just go with what is recommended on this sub. CaribSea moonlight super fine sand. https://www.chewy.com/caribsea-super-naturals-moonlight/dp/322495?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=12700039114&utm_content=CaribSea&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAiAs8acBhA1EiwAgRFdwx7NgmAr-ChrpgYMuJG1Ew4Qa156jM9N_A...
My baby loves her hammock - just make sure there is no metal that can corrode in the tank and it’s fine.
Hi! Fellow dutch axo owner here. I also couldn't find the API master but I did find one from JBL which should be quite trustworthy https://www.amazon.nl/JBL-2408400-PROAQUATEST-LAB/dp/B07QNYNS7T/ref=mp_s_a_1_37?crid=PQY71QU6SWRO&keywords=api+master+test&qid=1669657335&sprefix=api+master+test%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-37
I personally use aqua testlab professional because our experienced aquarium friend recommended it. https://www.amazon.nl/Colombo-Aquatest-Testlab-Professional/dp/B09MD6JN8F/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=1BU9O0FP023IC&keywords=colombo+testlab&qid=1669657709&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjYzIiwicXNhIjoiMC43MiIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=colombo+tes...
I'm not sure if this is any help but I hate to see our slippery friends in a bad way.
as long as the axolotl is 6+ inches then yes. however, you cannot use any dyed sand, including black sand. a recommended aquarium sand is CaribSea.
Also here is a link to the test kit on Chewy. I’m not sure if they deliver to you but it’s worth a try.https://www.chewy.com/api-freshwater-aquarium-master-test/dp/121955?utm_source=google-product&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=13905630674&utm_content=API&utm_term=&gclid=CjwKCAiAmuKbBhA2EiwAxQnt7-lo8RZXQDPKDrTCKKslkiB4dNI9Q8NXqMtDqhgt-P2eyr6nslnIbRoCslwQAvD_BwE
Hi! I am the same, probably not as intense but I’m weird about water and cold or breeze on my upper arms. I got these gloves and I’ve had them for YEARS. I have a 90 gallon tank and they are a life saver. They also have texture for grip! They are lined so there isn’t issue with coldness! https://www.amazon.com/Atlas-772-Nitrile-Chemical-Resistant/dp/B00TED7BWY/ref=asc_df_B00TED7BWY/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312126003814&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12272180300546032030&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014218&hvtargid=pla-569216663266&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=62427825072&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312126003814&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12272180300546032030&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014218&hvtargid=pla-569216663266
I have this one and it’s been running for nearly a year. I live in Texas, and it lowers my tank temp 2+ degrees on low and 3+ degrees on high. I just bought a four fan version of this for the larger tank I am cycling. Eventually I will likely invest in a chiller, but this has worked well even through the seeming months of hundred degree weather we have had this year.
This is the one you want, it won’t break down and there is no metal to rust. I have four large and my Axolotls use them all the time. https://www.amazon.ca/Zoo-Med-Reptile-Hammock-17-5-Inch/dp/B0002AQDKO/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=G00BW63XJHKU&keywords=repti+hammock&qid=1666474373&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIxLjAyIiwicXNhIjoiMC45NCIsInFzcCI6IjAuOTIifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=repti+hammock%2Cap...
This kit has everything you need. Get it immediately because you are likely keeping your axolotl in water that will make it sick.
Even though my tank was cycled and the parameters were fine, I had exactly same issue and it came down to the filter. I had the AquaCLean hanging filter for up to 75 gal I tink, but it was not good enough. I have a 29gal/tall. Somebody here suggested I get the following filter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015JMQRNC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
It was easy to set up, but I watched youtube reviews and set up tips cause the instructions it came with were meh. I did get the extra pads and media that Amazon suggests you buy with it. Within minutes the water was visibly better and now it's just clear and beautiful.
I used to have the issue with slime and white cotton like floaties stuck to the walls and everything in the tank. This is still a minor issue, it slowly comes back but instead after a day it takes a week or so and its less and less common. I'm very happy with that filter. Hope this works for you.
>to connect the plastic tube to the chiller because you cant use the metal clamps on the black hard plastic tubing.
Appreciate the feedback and pics! I ended up getting this adapter, but maybe I won't need it if I use your method. Excited for no more ice bottles/packs to lower the temp.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006JLOCI?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
How often do you clean the fluval out? Have you had to do anything with the chiller?
an option for a filter could be the SunSun canister filter. it’ll help keep your cycle in check and make the water crystal clear.
I have this filter (https://www.amazon.ca/Aquatic-Supplies-CAF-40-Classic-Aquarium/dp/B00FF4TTQ2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=3MJGMZFI516ZZ&keywords=aquatop+sponge+filter+40+gallons&qid=1663528303&sprefix=aquatop+sponge+filter+40+gallons%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-3) with this air pump (https://www.amazon.ca/Tetra-77849-Whisper-Pump-60-Gallon/dp/B004PB8SNQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?crid=G9DL9A6ALSWB&keywords=tetra+whisper&qid=1663528363&sprefix=terta+whisper+%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-5) and I do also have an air stone as the whisper has two hose outputs
I’d get a lid, best one I have tried is egg crate, it’s affordable as well. You can get it from hardware stores.
This is what it looks like -https://www.amazon.ca/OBANGONG-Divider-Louvre-Aquarium-Isolation/dp/B07CBSG6Y5/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?crid=1FTO445PSTVCZ&keywords=Egg+Crate+light&qid=1662636977&refinements=p_85%3A5690392011&rnid=5690384011&rps=1&sprefix=egg+c...
The gills are WAY too short. quick, you wanna pump out ~5 gallons of his tankwater into a home depo bucket, put him in and do a complete clean of the tank. i'm talking substrate, decor, everything. afterward, dump the bucket that holds your axie back into the tank and do a water change. once the water change is done, dump in the recommended amount of this liquid in. After all that's said and done, be sure to do regular water changes, along with testing the ammonia and pH of the water by using test strips every day until it levels out. Another thing to keep in mind, is that the tankwater has to be BELOW 70 degrees. I always keep my tank at a comfortable 63 degrees using a aquarium chiller (DO NOT USE ICE UNLESS ITS AN EMEGRENCY. THE ICE CAN SHOCK THE WATER WHILE CARRYING BACTERIA THAT IS HARMLESS TO US, BUT HARMFUL TO THEM). if your axie develops any kind of fungus, give him regular aquarium-salt baths or if it gets too extreme, visit your local exotic vet. I hope this helps get your old boy back to health.
(Note: if there is anything anyone would like to add, please do! I only got my axies about a year ago, and got these tips from a close friend of my mothers who had gifted me the axies.)
I agree the Lotl lofts are great, but don’t make the same mistake I did and buy a translucent one, my lotl prefers this cave more and I assume because it is dark inside. She is about 10 inches long and loves to chill in this:
Marina Decor Polyresin Cave, Large https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0032GEFG4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Fluval 307 this is a great filter for one axolotl in a 40gal breeder. It's gonna do more than you need which is definitely what you want when it comes to these pets, they produce a ton of waste.
This is an undergravel filter. Typically you put them under gravel, water is drawn down through the gravel where a bunch of beneficial bacteria live and sediment is left in and under the gravel (sediment is the only problem with them). They are good and low maintenance. With filter foam on them you get the same results and cleaning should be easier.
A 20 gallon long would be as small as I would go for a baby.
I had a big plastic log from ZooMed for Steve that he loved. It’s nice cuz they can swim through it and hide their whole body in it, but also sit on top of it. Might help them reach the waterline better until their gills heal up? https://www.chewy.com/zoo-med-aqualog-aquarium-ornament/dp/344842
I think more plants would look nice! I wedged them into my other decorations and it worked pretty well, no glue needed!
I have a Hygger light that was relatively affordable, it's fully programmable to fade slowly on using 8 different light increments, you can set them as bright or as dim as you want. I have mine set to fade on and stay at around 20 percent in the morning, then it brightens up to 40 percent, and then it's 60 percent brightness at it's "brightest" point, then it starts getting dimmer again until the lights go off for the night. It's very nice!
The best option is an aerated bait bucket. It has a battery operated airstone and it is insulated like a cooler. If you put cold dechlorinated water in the bucket, it will stay cold and your axolotl will have an air supply. If you are worried about the water warming up, you could place the bucket in a larger cooler full of ice. I recommend the bucket below as I have used it for transporting my axolotl.
I use these mixed with his diets. Sinking stinky pellets. At first my axo made a disgust reaction, now enjoys them.
Aquatic Foods Adult Axolotl Food... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LC5BVG9?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
This is a good recommendation for pellets! I would like to chime in with the others though and say that earthworms really are the very best thing that you could be giving them on a regular basis. Earthworms are a nutritionally complete food and contain all of the vitamins, minerals, and calcium that they need to stay healthy.
Hornwort and anubias worked super well for me! They never died, and my lotl loves hanging on hornwort! I think the problem I did with my 40gb was that driftwood falls apart really easily and having driftwood on sand made it basically impossible to clean. I now have tiles with light sand in my 100g and its 100000 times easier to clean! My boyfriend and I both use this hide for our lotls and it's worked really well! We also put hammocks up and they love to chill on them! Here is a link to a good hammock! (Reminder that this is all sources in the US) I hope this helps!!
It's posted, but I grabbed the link anyways:
Clip-on Fan for Cooling Genesis 6-Inch Clip Convertible Table-Top & Clip Fan Two Quiet Speeds https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01559O0WY/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_Z3NCWZ3DEXQ71BQ3QDQ8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This is the one I use!
You can if you separate them sorta like what youre doing. I recommend a different divider however. I had this one for the two lotls I had. As long as it stays up, no breeding issues.
I have Aquariums not Axolotls, but your tank isnt fully cycled. Luckily thanks to science we can now buy lab grown beneficial bacteria. Also if you havent already rip out those cartridge filter and replace it with sponges. https://youtu.be/hRNBUbqzzuw
https://www.amazon.com/Fritz-Aquatics-Fritzzyme-7-Freshwater-Nitrifying/dp/B0002DGKAO
I'm looking for replacements. Am I able to safely use river stones with some preparation to clean beforehand? Otherwise I'm looking at something like this:
Do you have any other suggestions?
... wow how did I not think of that
https://www.chewy.com/ecobio-block-ecobio-stone-beneficial/dp/166174
Is that too much?
We strongly recommend the API Freshwater Master Test Kit if it is available in your country! As mentioned already, test strips tend to be very inaccurate, and actual liquid kits with reagents are much easier to read and get valid results from.
API Freshwater Master Kit if you are in the States Amazon has them on sale right now ^ _ ^
We recommend the API Freshwater Master Test Kit if it is available in your country! If you post an image of the test results once obtained, we can interpret and give you advice for them!
There’s many ways to attempt to cool down the tank:
-A mesh or custom lid to allow the water to cool down by evaporation: I’ve DIY’d using egg crate ceiling light panels and cutting it down to fit my tank.
-Using a fan:
Look up reviews to see if any of them fit around the lip of the tank. If not you can secure it to something or just leave it on the mesh lid.
-Floating frozen water bottles or adding ice with dechlorinator ( not optimal because it changes the temp too drastically ) still an option if ur desperate.
-Partial water change with cooler water.
-Using an aquarium chiller ( very pricey )
-If any of these methods help cool down the tank, I’d recommend once it’s cooled down, insulate the outside of the tank, you can use a Mylar blanket or reflective insulation.
Hope some of that helps!
I bought these for my goofer & he loves it. I was just going to post a picture of him in it here.
2Pack Aquarium Shelf,Transparent... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BC3G95G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
No! That's specifically for salt water tanks. This is the most recommended brand for lotls
https://www.amazon.ca/Python-25NS-25-Feet-Aquarium-Maintenance/dp/B000255NXC# This is the Brand Name python
https://www.amazon.ca/hygger-Bucket-Free-Aquarium-Cleaner-Maintenance/dp/B08CXT5LP9 This is the one I use!
You will need to find an adaptor so it can attach to your sink; but it makes water changes waaaaay easier!
I had got her when she was a baby from a breeder, and she is now exactly 4 months and 10 days old. So, I know for sure she wasn't nipped before or now since this only started showing up a week ago. Is it possible that it just happens or not?
As for grass they are out of stock in the brand I usually get lol. I have just had that lying around in my cabinet for my aquatics. There is another brand that I have bought for my fish tank though and it works great! And some people have used this for their axolotls.
The grass is very soft and the link I sent if of the brand I have used for some of my fish tanks :) https://www.amazon.com/LULIND-Artificial-Grass-Square-Tiles/dp/B0784HQBD5/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=oP7mv&content-id=amzn1.sym.bbb6bbd8-d236-47cb-b42f-734cb0cacc1f&pf_rd_p=bbb6bbd8-d236-47cb-b42f-734cb0cacc1f&pf_rd_r=HNWFP7EEPYZVBRE2JFA6&pd_rd_wg=ItJMi&pd_rd_r=1b537d3e-f20f-4b59-a7c0-3b3df008d1e1&ref_=pd_gw_ci_mcx_mi&th=1
Hi, thank you! And yes they’re from Amazon. Acrylic Shelves This should work, if it doesn’t just reply here again and I will figure it out! lol
If you’re using it in an axolotl tank or with something that has very soft skin, the edges are sharp. I took a small metal file and just smoothed them until they were soft to the touch. It really only took like 30 minutes to get all the edges of two of them done. I promise they’re worth it. I get some pretty cool up close pics with them. Plus it just gives them more space to rest on in the tank. I hope this helps :)
Hi, thank you! And yes they’re from Amazon. Acrylic Shelves This should work, if it doesn’t just reply here again and I will figure it out! lol
If you’re using it in an axolotl tank or with something that has very soft skin, the edges are sharp. I took a small metal file and just smoothed them until they were soft to the touch. It really only took like 30 minutes to get all the edges of two of them done. I promise they’re worth it. I get some pretty cool up close pics with them. Plus it just gives them more space to rest on in the tank. I hope this helps :)
This also says provides slime coat on the bottle?
I've been able to drop a 20 g tank by 8 degrees with this ... londafish aquarium fan. It is a lot cheaper than a formal chiller!
I just got the chiller in the link attatched and just have the the inlet tube in my 40g w the pump and outlet tube attached to it next to it. I have to find a better lid but other than that I have had no problems with the set up. However it is on the pricey side but I found it worth the money. chiller
Yeah, I would. I use a water changing hose, it's a game changer for high volume water changes. Something like this: Aqueon Aquarium Water Changer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000YACELE/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_MBNHSFZMZGWEP57C7R8H?psc=1 I turn off my filter pump and add a full tank dose of seachem prime before adding the tap water. You can use a thermometer to temp match but I do it by hand and have gotten pretty good at matching the temp.
I just dose about two tablespoons. I get a container of the tank water, put in the salt then shake/stir is really good so it dissolves then add it back in.
Yeah, an airstone. I have a circular one that causes almost no current and would probably recommend something like that (they're really cheap) and I put it in the middle of the tank and turn up the air bubbler to max for a couple of weeks which shouldn't cause any current if your tank is large enough. I'm happy to recommend anything if you want :) I just have this simple one right now but I would probably upgrade the tubing eventually since it's pretty bad and turns yellow quickly: https://www.amazon.com/Uniclife-Aquarium-Outlets-Accessories-Adjustable/dp/B01EBXI7PG/ref=sr\_1\_1?crid=2XPPT4PI3TXL&keywords=air+bubbler&qid=1653501700&sprefix=air+bubbl%2Caps%2C314&sr=8-1
Clip on stroller fans are the best for this! Here’s a link
Fluval Rubber Adapter for Ribbed Hosing, 304, 305, 404, 405 (2 Pieces) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002Z7V3W/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_7C4K2KB993EA2V9PQRF0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. Fluval Ribbed Hosing for 306/307 - 406/407 9.8Ft A20015 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000256908/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_T799A2WJ5PYHRBFA82D1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. I picked up a couple of larger hose clamps at the hardware store because the ones it came with seemed a little small but this is all you need.