Question: Do I need a filter?

[albert]

I currently have 2 axies (had one for 6 months or so the other for about 4 months) - each is currently in it's own 2 ft tank without filtration and I find weekly water changes keep water parameters fine. Both are happy healthy fellas - and have now grown to about 10 ins or 1ft long ( I am guessing they are both a year - 18 months old). Next week I am having a 4ft x 1.5 ft tank delivered this will eventually be their new joint home - which I intend to cycle with some plants/ornaments from my existing tanks and perhaps a few fish. What I am wondering is whether a filter is essential for this size tank (or perhaps less necessary? I don't know!) - and if not would weekly water changes (say 30%) be ok once tank settled down? If I do need a filter has anyone got any recommendations. Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks

 

[melfly]

I personally would get a filter.

It'll reduce the need for water changes and you'll get a more stable nitrogen cycle i would imagine.

Mel

 

[albert]

Mel,

Thanks for the quick response. I actually quite like the routine of weekly water changes - I get the kids to help with syphoning and they enjoy it - especially as it is normally 'large eartworm day' for our boys. Perhaps I should rephrase my question - I am happy without a fiter and doing the weekly 20-30% changes in my 2 ft tanks - does having a larger single body of water in a 4ft tank affect this?

 

[Opacum]

Hi Al. Well I agree with Mel in that having a filter is a great back-up to your water changes with purification and/or a nitrogen cycle in effect; plus the exhaust can help keep oxygen levels up if it is breaking the surface of the water. But if you are having such a great time with family doing those water changes... more power to you. LOL. Chemical changes, as a rule, take longer to manifest in a larger body of water, so that should even give you a little more leeway. But if you have a formula that works for your axolotls and they are happy... then you obviously are doing something right. Just enjoy your pets and your family! :happy:

 

[Kaysie]

I disagree. 2 axolotls in a 4 foot tank is way under-stocked (which is good). If you have plants and such, and a way to move the water, like an airstone, I think you'll be fine. And that's just to keep the water from getting stagnant, helps it turn over. Personally, I really like sponge filters, and I use them in all my aquatic tanks.