Can i put stones from the beach in my axolotl tank

[melanie87]

Hi,
I'm new to keeping axolotl and got 2 since thursday. I would like to build them some caves.can I use rocks from the beach after they have been boiled and cooled?
Thanks mel

 

[Otterwoman]

I have, with no adverse effects. Sounds like you've cleaned yours off about as thoroughly as I did also.

 

[charleybambino]

Just make sure they are securely in position as the ax often charge about their tanks knocking everything in their paths.....mine easily rock tennis ball sized beach rocks

 

[melanie87]

Thanks. I wanna put them on tupperware to make the caves look nicer.
I also noticed when I fed them today that there is a little "film" on the water. What could that be? I got a fake plant in,a bridge I used for the fish we had before,a feeding bowl from the reptile section at a pet shop and a black plastic plant pot.
Could it be off the plant pot? And would the filter get rid of it if I take the pot out or do I have to change all the water?
Thanks

 

[dannyyyallenn]

Well it could be a protein film or bacteria film. If you have standing water this will usually occur. So a filter that gets the water circulating will get rid of that. Just make sure not to leave food in the tank after your done feeding because that can contribute to a film and feed bacteria. Also, if you notice that one of the decorations you have is peeling in any way, remove it immediately because it could be the culprit, releasing harmful oil into the water.

 

[ChristineB]

This link has some tips for getting rid of protein scum, and I also suggest you read the article on cycling (linked in that page) since it sounds like a new set-up. Before joining, I didn't understand how the water chemistry worked and found those articles super helpful. Caudata Culture - Frequently Asked Questions