Tank Advice

[CaptainGunnar]

Hello! I am going to start setting up a tank to get my first axolotl, but I need help with what I am supposed to do! For just one in a tank how big should it be and what do I need? Are there any guides or anything that someone could reference me to?

 

[RusieckiR]

10 for one adult but i would go a little bigger and cycle it too

 

[emdalliance]

I would get at least a 20 gallon for one adult.


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[CaptainGunnar]

So 10 would be sufficient, but 20 would be a lot better? Also what does it mean to cycle a tank, is there somewhere I can read about that?

But thanks for answering by the way!

 

[Cloppy]

Here are a few articles on fishless cycling. Fishless Cycling - Article at The Age of Aquariums - Tropical Fish The (almost) Complete Guide and FAQ to Fishless Cycling - Aquarium Advice - Aquarium Forum Community Fishless Cycle - The First Tank Guide - Cycling Your New Aquarium Without Fish

 

[CaptainGunnar]

Thanks for the links! I read them and I think I understand it now!
But a few questions if you have the time
Once your tank is cycled and you do the water change then add the fish(in this case the axolotl) do you still need to add 1 ppm everyday or do you just let it do it's thing?
Also once your tank is cycled and you add the axolotl, do you need to worry about anything else or will the tank stay cycled?
Lastly, do you recommend live plants or artificial?

 

[Cloppy]

You see, when your tank is fully cycled, it means the nitrifying bacteria colony has been established on the substrate and filter. So unless you change the substrate or do a 100% water change, your tank will remain cycled.

 

[Cloppy]

As for the plants, fake plants do not need trimming, and you do not have to pick up dead leaves. But live plants look better, and they oxygenate the water.

 

[CaptainGunnar]

Thanks!

I am starting to compile a list of all of the things I need to setup my tank and start preparing. So once the tank is cycled and the axol is in then you don't need to add ammonia any longer correct? And it will stay cycled unless there is drastic change in water replacing or pH?

Also I think I am going to do some live plants and some fake then!
Lastly do you have advice for a substrate on the bottom? I read that play sand works well but do you have any advice?

 

[Cloppy]

It depends on how old your axolotl is. i would not put small juvenile on any substrate because it might get impacted. But adults will do fine on play sand.:happy:

 

[CaptainGunnar]

So like maybe once it gets a little bit older, I could add some play sand in for it?
Thanks for replying and helping by the way!