Talk to me like I'm stupid.... Need help with tank/filter setup!

[monarchcmj]

I have read *so* many threads, posts, pages, and articles about the best way to set up an axolotl tank that my head is spinning! I need it broken down for me here, in one place, so I can get my tank set up!
Here is some background info, and some questions.

I have a 20 gallon long tank that I need to set up to house my two axolotls. My axies are three months old right now, and are currently residing in separate plastic food storage containers and are quickly outgrowing them!

I have never "cycled" a tank before. I would like to use a sponge filter (or two) in the tank. Can I cycle the tank with sponge filters? (I will be putting some fish in the tank for the cycling process.) Is a sponge filter enough? Or should I have a HOB filter instead/in addition to it?
I would *love* some recommendations as far as which brand of filter is best, etc.

I have looked at sponge filters, Fluval filters, Eheim filters, etc. and I'm just completely overwhelmed! I know the current needs to be *very* low and spray bars help to cut down rapid water output, but if I can avoid doing so and can get away with just a sponge filter, I'd like to go that route.

Any and all advice, suggestions, etc. are welcome! Thanks so much!!!

 

[Bdyoung]

Sponge filter is the best filter for axolotls in my opinion. Yes, you can cycle your tank with a sponge because its a filter. The good bacteria will colonize on the sponge. I wouldn't recommend cycling with fish however I would use ammonia or some sort of food. Personally I use a combination of Dr. Tim's One and Only with Dr. Tim's ammonia and can cycle a tank within a week.

 

[tigmades]

Haha, I know how you feel!

I'm personally going to switch from my Aqua Clear70 (HOB filter) to a sponge filter when I finally get my first batch of axies. Solely because from reading all the reviews and seeing pictures. Their gills are supposed to longer and fluffier in them!

 

[layna]

I've only ever used a sponge filter with the air pump in it and it's fab! My axie has lovely fluffy gills and my water parameters are good. When they go into the 3 foot tank, I'll use two :happy:

 

[Minniechild]

Sponges are great- especially when used in conjunction with another filter. I'd suggest starting with the sponge filters, and seeing how (after a few months) they are coping with the load of the axies. If your cycle establishes, and you are happy with how your cleaning regimen is going, then leave it at that. If the cycle isn't establishing, add in another filtration source. Are you in a hot area where the temperature consistiently reaches above 82F? In which case, getting a canister filter so that you can add in a chiller if you can't keep the temperature cool and stable through other methods is a good idea.

 

[ChrisCook18]

Sponge filters are great, the only filters I had problems with were the fluval u3's and u4's. They were terrible. Now the adults are in a 5 foot ex display tank, two foot deep and two foot wide with over head filtration and they love it in there, plenty of hiding places and they mostly swim and float around the tank, and occasionally nibble at my finger whenever they get the chance