Tank question (and some advice needed please )

[jadeskeels]

Hi there ,

I have recently bought 2 tiny axolotls, Laura and Sebastian (il try and attach a pic) I have them both in a 4 foot tank with some large pieces of slate, some natural plants from pets at home (long grassy plants) and a big fake log for hiding, I have a small low flow filer running at all times too and a theometer on the side. So far all I have done is dechlorinate the water and left it for a few days before putting my axolotls in. They seem happy enough but as they are my first ever axolotls I have a few questions..

1. Does my set up sound OK? They look lost in the enormous tank as they are absolutely tiny (about 1.5 maybe 2 inch at the most)

2. Do I need to do anything else with the water (I have ph and nitrites checker )

3.how often should I feel the babies (i have been feeding them thawed bloodworm and they don't eat more than half a cube a day between them )

4. If there is anything you experienced owners could advise me I would be extrememly greatful I just want the best life possible for these cuties.

5. 1 more thing how often should I be cleaning the tank ?

Thanks, Jade. (Apologies if this is posted in wrong place )

 

[Chinadog]

Hi, welcome to the site.
The most important thing to begin with is water quality. Test kits for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate are essential for keeping an eye on water quality until the tank cycles. here are some good articles on the nitrogen cycle and other stuff you need to know when setting up your aquarium.

Caudata Culture Articles - Water Quality

http://www.caudata.org/cc/articles/cyclingEDK.shtml

 

[jadeskeels]

Thank you , Il have a read now

 

[STCxB]

I assume your tank is 55 gallon based on the fact that it is four feet long. Either way, what is the flow rate for your filter? A high flow rate filter with very dispersed flow is going to be your best friend for keeping your water clean. I also make sure to use a siphon and/or turkey baster about once a week to get the substrate clean (in my case sand).

If you haven't cycled the tank, I would find a second tank to hold them in until you can get it cycled. It'll be really stressful on them if you cycle it with them in the tank (at least if you do it using ammonia doses, which is the quickest way).

I sounds like you'll have some pretty happy axies once they get used to their new home and it gets up and running! Let's see some pictures, if you can.

 

[cabbysarus]

Be sure to take your little ones out while doing water changes... they could get hurt from the siphon