Planning ahead for future axie

[Skyla]

So Im looking into getting a cute little axie. The woman that I get my fish from told me a couple of days ago that she would be getting a bunch in that her friend was picking up from a reptile expo. After a little convincing to the boyfriend (showed him cute pictures and a video about how they regenerate) He determined they were cool and sounded easy enough to care for. Still, I want to make sure Im doing this right. I have a 10 gallon tank to start with. Im guessing the fish lady will be getting them fairly young. I have black moon sand that I use for my newts that I can use, a few extra fake plants and decorations I can use as hides and plenty of food already thats suitable for it to eat.

So from what I've read, I can keep him without a filter so long as I do regular water changes. Whats one more tank? I do regular changes to my other two every Thursday I think Ive done all my research but Id like to know from those who have axies are any useful hints on care that I wouldnt easily find. Any tricks? Odd behaviors to look out for? Anything that I should consider before getting one?

Also, how do I cycle a tank with no filter? I was thinking of getting a few guppies since they breath from the surface. How long should I allow it to cycle?

Im very excited and thanks in advance for any input.

 

[carsona246]

Cycling a tank without a filter is the same as with. The beneficial bacteria grows on whatever surface it has, so instead of growing on the filter media it will grow in the sand/decorations. If you have pre-cycled tanks around the house I would grab some filter media from one of those, and stick it in your tank and it should speed up the cycling process considerably. A ten gallon tank would be suitable for a growout tank, but if your planning on keeping it there for life I would consider getting something smaller. While many people say that a ten gallon tank is the minimum for an axolotl for life, I really don't think a ten gallon is suitable for a full grown axolotl. I would look into getting a 40 breeder, I found mine for $50. I would also add an air bubbler or something to add a little water movement in the tank so you don't have stagnant water sitting there. also I'm sure you've read axies like it cold, but a fan helps a lot for keeping the tanks cold. I really didn't think adding 1 fan would do much to cool my 40 breeder, but it keeps it cold enough for me to not be constantly concerned about adding frozen bottles. If you have anymore questions just ask

 

[Skyla]

I have a 15 gal, a 20, 30, and two 55s stored in the garage. Im sure I can find one that will work

Thank you for the advice!