Creating My First Axolotl Tank

[korimizu]

Hello, Caudata. I have decided to get one axolotl (possibly two if that would be better) for a 20 gallon tank. I’ve only housed basic fish before as far as aquatic pets, so I’m not sure of what the water has to be. What chemicals need to be tested in the water (other than de-chlorinating it, obviously) that need to be added/kept away? My house is about 72 degrees and fully air-conditioned, will that suffice or will I have to drop the temperature of my room a couple degrees or get a water cooler? Should I get live plants, and if so, how do I care for them?

Also, as far as substrate, I plan to get play sand (which seems to be the best according to my research) with some large rocks scattered about for decoration and to keep fake plants from uprooting. If the rocks are twice the size of my thumb, will the axolotl swallow them? Also, I got a fake plant that’s rooted in lava rock. It’s made for aquariums, but I’ve seen that lava rock has potential harmful chemicals. Is it safe to use?

I’m also not familiar with some of the terms. What is fridging and why is it used? As far as I can tell it’s when you place an axolotl in a cold environment like a fridge to reduce stress, but I’m still a little confused.

I also have a fake tree stump with a lot of twisting roots - how big should a hiding place be? I don’t want my axolotl getting stuck anywhere.

I appreciate you reading this. Thanks for any responses!