Terrified to mess up

[Elliriyanna]

I am notorious for screwing up with pets ... not on purpose just as a novice ... so I want to run by my plan and see what you think

I am planning a barebottom tank with ( for now) an old hide for fish that's fine for baby axie. , I have a 10 gallon in tank filter that's cycled but can't handle the bioload of a Axolotl so I will do a fishless cycle when I move it over, I have covered in the intake with panties hose to keep any limbs, gills etc from being sucked in. Its very low flow it doesn't even bother my Delta Betta boy. I also have feeding tongs and plan to feed primarily earthworms

For plants I was going to use fake plants and silicone them to flat LARGE rocks ( 3 + inches)

I am also getting a Turkey baster and thermometer. I am planning a juvenile in a 20 tall or 25 gall ( depends what I can get my hands on)

I know cycling takes at least a month without a seeded filter however I have a liquid API master kit so I will keep a tank log.

I know everyone here says not to trust the cat but if my tank takes my entire stand and my cat is far more interested in fish food than fish do I need a top? I don't even see how she could get up to it.

Am I forgetting anything? I feel like I am missing something.

 

[maghan6]

Everything sounds good but I would encourage you to get a screen top. Axolotls have been known to jump out of their tanks.

 

[Danny]

I am new to axolotls as well but I would highly recommend a screen top. There are an unfortunately large amount of axolotls who have jumped out. Also, I'm not sure if silicone is always safe? I could be wrong but I thought I had heard that there are certain ingredients to watch out for in it. Maybe someone more experienced can let you know about that!

 

[Elliriyanna]

I meant aquarium sealant

I am sorry I failed to mention my tank would be filled approximately 6 inches below the top since these are tall tanks and allow for plenty of depth without a full tank ... could they still leap out with such a gap?

 

[Elliriyanna]

Am I being negligent to start super simple? Or does it even make a difference to the axolotls?

 

[Kaysie]

As long as they have a place to hide, some good food, and cool, clean water, they couldn't care less about the aesthetics of the tank. The looks are purely for you.