Question: A Few Questions

[bjay154]

So I'm trying to get a new 10 gallon tank for my Japaneses FB newt. As far as substrate, I'll either get sand, gravel, or river rocks (most likely sand).

But what kind of plants should I get for my newt? Do I need a filter if I have plants? Should I cycle the tank first? And what are some good ways of setting up the tank itself (rock placement on the bottom, some good hiding places, etc.)?

I tried to find answers to some of these but they weren't exactly what I was looking for or I just couldn't find it. I'm new to the site so I can't navigate it as well.

Your answers are much appreciated!

 

[Greatwtehunter]

So I'm trying to get a new 10 gallon tank for my Japaneses FB newt. As far as substrate, I'll either get sand, gravel, or river rocks (most likely sand).

I like the look of plain river rocks but it's such a pain in the "you know what" to keep clean . Using a sand/rock mix gives you the look of the river rock without the hassle of all the dirt getting in all the cracks and crevices.

But what kind of plants should I get for my newt?

I have pennywort, elodea, java fern, hornwort, and java moss in mine.

Do I need a filter if I have plants? Should I cycle the tank first?

You don't need a filter if you have plants. Since firebelly newts prefer little to no water current they'll actually appreciate no filter.

If after you get it setup and you find that you start getting a slight film on the water surface then you can add an air stone and this should solve the problem.

Here is an article on cycling. It gives you a couple of methods you could try.

And what are some good ways of setting up the tank itself (rock placement on the bottom, some good hiding places, etc.)?

It's all about what looks good to you. Newts don't care how the tank is arranged. The plants themselves will act as barriers so you don't really need to worry about hides.

Here are a couple of articles that could give you some ideas.
Caudata Culture Articles - Setups, Aquatic
Caudata Culture Articles - Setups More
Caudata Culture Articles - Setups, Semiaquatic