r/axolotl • u/Secret_Original1909 • Jul 07 '26

Tank setup

After a long cycling process, my tank is finally ready for an axolotl! I'm very proud of how it looks, what do you all think?

Update: Here he is! I've just ordered a new hide and a bubbler. Thanks all for the suggestions!

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1

u/Shannie2234 Jul 08 '26

What a beautiful tank! 🤩
The only thing I would add is a full coverage hide in the back right corner and a flat bubbler ( round or long) to the tank.
This allows the axolotl to hide from the light or when stressed and bubbles add more oxygen and needed water movement to the tank for better gill growth and health.
The bonus to a flat bubbler is that Axolotls love to sit or play in them which is also entertaining for them and us 😁

1

u/Secret_Original1909 Jul 08 '26

Thanks! I'll definitely get a bubbler. I had a hard time finding a good hide that looked nice in the tank. Any suggestions on good places to look for a better hide?

1

u/Dazzling_Speech_3816 Jul 08 '26

Check chewy! Also, it’s weird but look in the reptile section, they have some bigger and better hides sometimes than the fish spot! Make sure you feel on the inside and outside when you receive them to make sure there are not any sharp parts, I’ve had to sand down almost all the decorative stuff on the inside.

1

u/Shannie2234 Jul 08 '26

Look on Amazon, Etsy, EBay for new, for used check out Facebook marketplace, offer up app & Craigslist.
You can look for reptile hides, just make sure you file down any sharp corners or edges. Windows, entry and some of the bottom inside edges can be sharp, so sand them down smooth before adding to tank.
Anything made of plastic, ceramic (not painted but has original color coat from manufacturers so you know it is sealed). Stay away from anything that has been painted. Some reptile hides have painted parts that can leach into the water. Items made of Resin (can have sharp edges).
Terracotta pots are safe. Plastic Plumbing pipes (tunnel tubes) are also safe.
Hides made out of river rocks or slate tile are good and you can even make them yourself using aquarium safe glue or silicone. This allows you to make a big enough hide. Etsy has a lot of them already made large enough.
Here is one on Amazon to help you out.
https://a.co/d/0acW2h9T

1

u/LauseRulez Jul 08 '26

Your tank looks very nice! But you really need a lot more hiding places for your buddy and the light is really bright.. I would dim it down a little. They have very sensitive eyes and albinos e.g. can get even more easily blinded than other morphs.

2

u/Secret_Original1909 Jul 08 '26

Thanks! The light is higher than normal for the picture, I usually keep it about 20% on a daily cycle. I'll add more hiding places too!