Need help with tank Set-up

[LukeF]

Hi I'm getting a new tank for my Axolotl on Saturday and I was wondering a few things before i introduce him to it.

1. Since my current tank doesn't have a heater, and the new one comes with one, What's the best temperature for an axolotl?

2. I'm feeding him Brine Shrimp Cubes which float on top of the water until they defrost and then sink. This means there's no 'feeding place' for my axolotl, He's been fine without one but I'm just worried that in a bigger tank he might not be able to find the food.

3. I'm looking to get Sand for the bottom of the Tank, I already have caves and Rocks for him to hide in and climb on. What type sands should I use, and where could I buy them?

4. The tank i have at the moment dose not have a light. but the new tank i plan on getting comes with one. I've read that lights can blind your axolotl, so I've tried to find floating plants that will block of the most of the light from the tank. Is there any easy to maintain plants that i could buy for the tank?

 

[Kaysie]

Lose the heater. Axolotls like it below 20C, at the warmest.

Switch to earthworms. They're more nutritious. And by adding brine shrimp cubes directly to the water, you're adding a lot of salt to your water. You either need to thaw and rinse cubes outside of the tank, or feed in a different tub so you don't pollute the tank.

Pool filter sand or play sand is fine. You can get them from any home improvement store. Avoid pet shops as they charge more for the exact same thing.

There's an entire section of the forum dedicated to plants.

 

[LukeF]

Thanks for the help, I'll try get some earthworms as soon as i can.
My pet store doesn't sell them. Only Live Insects (Are they any Good?).
I've just been up there today and seen a lot of Live plants that could work well in the tank. :happy:

 

[Niels D]

Try a shop that sells fish bait. They'll probably have live worms there. It's real easy to start your own culture.

Food: Live, Frozen, Freeze-Dried, Pellets, etc - Earthworms, Nightcrawlers, etc at Caudata.org Newt and Salamander Portal

 

[LukeF]

Thanks, I'll check around for some worms!

Pool filter sand or play sand is fine. You can get them from any home improvement store. Avoid pet shops as they charge more for the exact same thing.

Could i use this Sand?
Bag of Approx. 90g Coloured Sand Art Paint Craft Weddings Decoration Home Use | eBay

 

[Kaysie]

I wouldn't. It could contain all sorts of things that might be harmful. Stick for sand that's for aquatic situations and is safe for either kids or fish.