Question: Need help with Flat Back Hex Tank.

[TheJadeAxolotl]

I have a 30 Gallon Flat Back Hex Tank with a matching wood stand. I am going to clean, sand, seal, and refinish the stand. And clean the tank with vinegar. Set it up and getting it running. Not sure what filter I want to put on it as of yet.

I am running into trouble on my thought process. I have two young Axolotls, 1 is a WT, and the other is a GWT. They are young and small right now. Hoping to put both of them in it.

Thinking of doing a light sand/sifted play sand as the substrate with some large river stones buried in the sand. I am wanting to add some live plants to the tank as well, maybe some Amazon Swords, Wisteria, etc. Maybe some driftwood and LARGE smooth/soft edged rocks/stones.

Here are my problems:
My tank didn't have a lid, I am thinking either an outline of wood with hardware cloth OR a solid glass top. Not sure? Any thoughts?

I am worried about the lighting for the plants would hurt the Axies, but I think I read somewhere it is fine, as long as they have somewhere to get out from under the lights. Is that right?

Any other tips

 

[Hellpuppy]

The cover might help with water evaporation rate. If glass is too hard to cut try using plexiglass . Or as you said the wood frame with cloth but I would use screen door netting instead.

 

[TheJadeAxolotl]

The cover might help with water evaporation rate. If glass is too hard to cut try using plexiglass . Or as you said the wood frame with cloth but I would use screen door netting instead.

Okay thanks. I just found around online that I can buy a top with a strip light. May look into getting one and adding some strips to the back if it is open.