Setting Up the Perfect Axolotl Tank

Setting up an axolotl tank? It's a delightful journey!

My axolotl, Mr. Wiggles, has taught me so much. There was that one time I thought he could handle a fancy castle. Spoiler: he couldn't. The poor guy got stuck! After that, I learned that less really is more in the tank world.

I always recommend having at least one hiding spot for each axolotl—plus a few snails to help out. Keep the water cozy between 16-18 degrees Celsius. Trust me, it's like a perfect chilly pool party for them!

Check out my blog, ExoTails, for more tips on keeping your aquatic pals happy!

Table of Contents

A Lesson from Mr. Wiggles

I remember the day I set up Mr. Wiggles' first tank. I was so excited, I went a little overboard with decorations.

After his castle mishap, I stripped it down to the essentials. Since then, Mr. Wiggles has thrived in his simple, cozy environment. It's amazing what a few plants and a proper hiding spot can do!

My Gill-ded Highlights

Use a spacious tank with minimal decorations, including at least one hide per axolotl for security and comfort.
Maintain water temperature between 16-18 degrees Celsius, checking regularly to avoid fluctuations.
Acclimate axolotls by floating the bag in the tank for 30 minutes before slowly introducing them.
Perform routine water changes and monitor water quality to keep the environment clean and healthy.
Provide a balanced diet and observe axolotls for signs of stress or illness to ensure their well-being.

While you're setting everything up, hold off on overcrowding the tank with decorations. Trust me; less is more. You can even add some snails as a cleanup crew. They're like tiny tank maids, keeping things tidy! Additionally, make sure to provide at least 1 hide per axolotl to ensure they feel secure in their new environment. It's also important to maintain a stable water temperature, as axolotls thrive in cooler conditions, ideally between 16-18 degrees Celsius. When you finally introduce your axolotl, take your time. Float the bag in the tank for about 30 minutes before opening it. This helps them acclimate. And let's be real; no one likes a dramatic entrance, right?