AquaOne AR850 - would this make a good tank for an axolotl?

[FX1C]

I have just been given 2 AquaOne tank setups one is an AR850 the other AR620(? Yet to pick up) are these setups with the filter above & all in one light etc etc suitable for axolotls? What changes do I need to make to try & get it right the 1st time?

I currently have a tiny baby axie who will need a bigger tank soon enough - I'd like to set up the future tank now & get lots of tankscaping done before he/she moves into the new crib

I'd appreciate any & all input (I am a keen to learn 40yr old newbie!)

Is the 850 too big for a little one? How big should the axie be before going into a large tank? (I would like to be able to find him occasionally lol) currently just 30mm long & a very slow grower - survived me learning under pressure.

Sorry if these questions have been covered repeatedly - I have tried to search the forums & I have been reading loads of informative posts.

Thank you in advance

 

[jasper408]

I can't say for sure how strong the filter is, but I have always preferred sponge filters over canister ones. Axies seem to feel the same way. Although the filter aerates the water through surface agitation, there are no problems with current and the axies grow magnificent gills because of this. Sponge filters also provide biological and mechanical filtration, and many users have had great success with these.

I noticed that the tank has a hood. Will you have problems maintaining the proper temperature? Hoods resist water evaporation and retain heat because of this. Some solutions to this include using mesh/reptile screens, fans, various ice techniques, and aquarium chillers.

The tanks are pretty large, and it's up to you when you put them in. Larger tank capacity generally means a more stable temperature and water quality. Provided that you don't mind the extra electricity and maintenance needed to maintain and feed in a larger tank, the only real downside I would think is finding a tiny axie in a large tank.

 

[FX1C]

That's my fear too I'll have to wait until he/she is at least 50-60mm before placing into new tank - maybe I'll have to get a couple more similar sized babies to give companionship (axie addiction engaged!!! lol) then I can use a magnifying glass to find them!

I didn't think about the hood on top until you mentioned it :-/ now I'm thinking I could make a mesh insert to elevate the hood 50mm & have a perimeter of mesh to give ventilation. Or I'll stick a 12yr old pleco in the bigger tank & use the smaller tank with no hood for the axie

This aquarium stuff really should come with warnings of "severe addiction"

Thanks for the help >o_o<