Aaron,
In my opinion, I wouldn't purchase an axolotl just as yet because I can guarantee you that your tank will not be cycled as of next week. I know it's exciting to get a new pet
but as the saying goes "only fools rush in" and I was one once with getting my axolotl prematurely. So the best thing to do is to wait until your tank has been cycled because a 'fish-less cycle' is better than the 'fish-cycling'. Hypothetically speaking, shoud you get your axolotl next week you experience a massive ammonia spike (which was what happened in my case) and your axolotl doesn't withstand the excessive concentration it will inevitably succumb to disease and even death
...
On another note, pH plays an imperative role in nitrification (a.k.a cycling). Nitrification will reach maximum saturation at pH values ranging between 7.2-8.3. Anything beyond 8.3 (i.e. more alkaline- high pH) will reduce the effectiveness of nitrification. Similarly, nitrification will decrease in acidic conditions; when pH is at 7.0 (neutral) nitrification will drop to less than 50% optimal efficiency and <30% when pH is 6.5, then is practically non-existent at 6.0 with only 10% efficiency. But on a positive note, the nitrifying bacteria do not die, they just cease all metabolic activities.
Oxygen also plays a vital role as well because nitrifiers are aerobic, that is they require oxygen in order to thrive. Unfortunately, nitrifiers lack the ability to utilise oxygen effectively, especially when in competition for oxygen with the community of bacteria that are breaking down organic matter. Therefore the more oxygen you supply your tank with, the quicker the cycling process.
Never the less, best of luck with your soon-to-be axolotl
Jay.
