Help! I have to downgrade!

[Chlorophilian]

At Oregon State University, where I will be moving in the fall, there is a regulation that states that aquaria kept in dorm rooms may be no larger than 10 gallons. Currently, I keep my axolotl in a 20 gallon tank at home. As Yanti is coming with me, I need to make preparations for living within the regulations and the graces of any room-mate I might have.
Any recommendations for accommodations for Yanti? Sources for a 10 gallon tank with a larger footprint and less depth, or a filter quiet enough to avoid aggravating my cohabitor? Methods for switching Yanti to a food that doesn't require freezing, or ways to keep food frozen while in a kitchenless room? I'd appreciate anything you've got.

 

[esn]

It's unlikely that they'd really regulate that. I had a 55, two twenties, two tens, and a five in my dorm room! If you know the dorm that you will be living in you could ask the area director if a 20 will be ok - they don't always stick to the written rules exactly. My dorm didn't allow any pets, but when asked I could keep any size aquarium. It's worth a shot.

If that doesn't work out, would you be against using a sterilite tub? It would be much easier for water changes in a shared bathroom situation. If not, ten gallons all have the same footprint - I've never seen one with different dimensions. A normal ten would be fine if your axolotl isn't beastly large.

As for food, switch to earthworms. They only need to be refrigerated to last a long time, but they do have a shelf life otherwise. Since you're in the PNW, Fred Meyer and Walmart will carry packs of a dozen night crawlers for about two dollars. Just wrap it in a bag. Luckily, worms are one thing people are not likely to steal in a community fridge. Consider getting a mini fridge, though. It will make your dorm life much less stressful. They're also the perfect temperature to keep worms for a long time.