Sand

[Lairel]

I read somewhere that you can use regular sand, like play box sand that you pick up at a hardware store, can be used in an axolotl habitat. Is this true? Aquarium sand is expensive so I am hoping for an alternate option. Also how do you rinse the sand before adding it to the tank?

 

[Bette]

Please review this article: Caudata Culture Articles - Aquarium Substrates
It has lots of great info! I used pool filter sand, and many others use play sand. Definitely rinse it thoroughly in a large container outside.
But if you will have young axolotls in the tank, it's best to go with bare bottom. Even sand can cause impaction in juveniles. Hope this helps

 

[RyanTheFIshGuy]

Ive also heard NOT to use masonary sand or cementing sand.

 

[layna]

Aquarium sand, pool filter sand or childrens play sand will be fine.
Just ensure you rinse and rinse and rinse until the water runs clear and remeber that the tank will still be a little cloudy for a few days until the sand settles

 

[Cacique]

I have pool filter sand in my axie, shrimp and goldfish tanks without any issues. I got PFS because after reading a lot I found play sand to be much harder to clean.

 

[SilentBenjam]

I just spent £40 on 2 X 10kg bags of aquarium sand. :lame:
Wanted a specific colour though.

On a cheerier note, i'm nearly ready for axolotls, just need to wait for the bacteria to build up. whoop

 

[ArdyBay]

I get the play sand from home depot.
$5.00 for a 50 lbs bag. Have to rinse it a lot, but it's awesomely cheap.