Is my setup ok?

[RayJ47]

Hello everyone. I recently decided to build my first aquarium and I've chosen axolotl as my first aquatic pet. I researched many different sites and read a lot of mix reviews here on this forum. I would like to know if my setup is ok: 55 gallon tank (has center brace), external canister 302 from sunsun, 2 pieces of medium-large driftwood, some fake plants. I plan on caring 1 axol for now so I know 55 gallon is well enough. Maybe in the future I might add another axol. The driftwoods have been curing for the past 2 days in a bucket of hot water. I even plan to boil it for safety precautions. I plan on buying anubais and attaching them to the wood after its been cured. I'm having a hard time deciding if I should go bare bottom or use substrate but I'm leaning towards play sand. I read that play sand is a good substrate after washing vigorously multiple times. Provides the surface area for beneficial bacteria but I also read driftwood would provide plenty enough area for the bacteria.

My main concerns are really the substrate and the sunsun. Should the spray bar be above water level, spraying against the tank, or placed below water level upwards? Should I remove the carbon media that came with the canister? I am sorry for much information at once. I just want to make sure I take the necessary steps to keeping a healthy axolotl

Also, I am in the cycling phase. I haven't actually started until I know I'm good to go.

 

[charleybambino]

I can only comment from my own experiences....I prefere bare bottom as easier to keep clean...but if you go for sand remember not too deep and stir regularly to prevent build up of anaerobic bacteria.
I leave the carbon elements in.
As for the spray bar....go with what you prefere if the ax is happy. I have one who hates moving water...another who appears to play in the current!
My oldest ax is nearly 7 so hopefully can comment accurately
Good luck

 

[RayJ47]

Thank you.