First axolotl how should my tank be setup?

[BreakfastCrew]

Before I get my axolotl, which I plan on having two, I want to know how my tank should be set up.

So far I have a 35g Bowfront tank which I think might be too cramp for them both as I want some fish eventually once they have grown big enough to eat them. I chose fine grade sand because I read their skin was soft and can swallow gravel.

A bio-wheel filter and gio rock to keep the tank clean. Although I think the bio-wheel might not be necessary at all while they are young. My ROOM temperature is 18 at night and 22 during the day, I tested this in a corner where I will keep them.

Is there anything I'm missing like do I need a light source? They will be out of the sunlight but can I get lights for them and what kind?

 

[Joanne]

I think your tank is going to be too small for 2 axies. I'm new to all this to but from what I've read about on this forum is that you will need a bigger tank. Also don't put fish in the tank with them - I learnt the hard way - they will attack your axies. Make sure your sand has no metals in it & they don't like the light so no you won't need one. Hope this helps - let me know how it goes

 

[TorontoDrew]

As far as the light source goes, axolotl's don't have any eyelids. As a result, bright lights will be uncomfortable for them and they'll spend more time in their hides (you didn't mention any but you should have about 2 hides per axolotl). I have heard that LED lights are dim enough to illuminate the tank & not be uncomfortable but I don't have any first hand knowledge of them. As a general rule though, dimmer is better.

Do you know your water temperature?

 

[Black leaves]

when i frist bought my axie's, the tank was small 1'x1'x1' and packup with fish and newts, when i got home, i got larger tank 2'x2'x1.5' and my axies start to swim around like fish, its suprised me that this axies can swim almost long like fish!!!!!!! maybe they are happy and healty to have much larger room...

 

[BreakfastCrew]

I heard its okay to keep small guppies but I would it be okay to have triops in the tank? because three-eyed crabs are just too cool and I think they would clean up any uneaten food pretty well.

I don't know the water temperature because I don't have a thermometer, i'll make sure to get the one that sticks to the side of the tank when I pick up some hideaways for them to hang out.

I bought super natural sand made from carib-sea, it didn't say anything about metals.

 

[Black leaves]

you guys from europe and america sure has very good temperature there for your axies and salamender... me at malaysia has to think hard to cool our tank cause it was maintain 27 celsius and highiest of 30 celsius... im soooo jealous........