Care Guide

Before you add an axolotl to your family, it is important that you know how to take care of them so they can live a happy and healthy life.

What You'll Need

  • 20 gallon cycled tank minimum for 1 Axolotl. 10 gallons added for every additional axolotl at a minimum.

  • 1 hide out per Axolotl.

  • Substrate is sand or bare bottom. (NO Pebbles, rocks, or gravel) (No sand until the axolotl is 5+ inches)

  • No direct or consistent light.

  • Water temperature should be between 60F-68F.

  • Fresh Water Master Kit

  • Seachem Stability (Nitrifying bacteria/ammonia chloride)

  • Seachem Prime (Water conditioner)

  • Sponge filter, canister filter, or hanging filter. Axolotls do not like strong flow, so be sure to adjust the flow to a weaker setting if possible. For axolotls, it is recommended to use a filter capable of filtering double the amount of water in the tank.

*Do not house opposite gendered axolotls together*


Medicine

  • Indian Almond leaves

  • Used for cuts and minor fungal infections. (While tubbing the axolotl, add an IAL to the water and let soak until the next daily water change.)

  • Black Tea Bath

  • Used for minor to moderate fungal infections. (While tubbing the axolotl, prepare approximately 1 cup of pure black tea and let it cool. Once cool, add to axolotls water and let soak for 10-15 minutes. After soaking, remove axolotl and place in clean conditioned water.)

  • Methylene Blue

  • Used for major fungal infections. (While tubbing the axolotl, add one drop at a time (2-4 drops should be enough for most tub sizes) until the water is a very pale blue color. After soaking for 12 hours, remove axolotl and place in clean conditioned water.)

These treatments are used for the most common types of conditions axolotls will experience. For more in depth treatment options feel free to contact me and in the case of an emergency, contact a veterinarian.

Tubbing

Tubbing is used in the event that an axolotl suffers any cuts, scrapes, illnesses, or other health concerns. To tub an axolotl all you need is a small plastic tub or container large enough for the axolotl to fit and move comfortably in (approximately the size of a shoe box). After you have filled the tub with water, add Prime conditioner and place the axolotl into the tub. For the best results, replace the water in the tub at least once a day. It may take several days, or possibly even weeks, for the axolotl to recover enough to be returned to its tank.


Food

  • Nightcrawlers (cut up if needed)

  • Red wigglers

  • Blackworms

  • Repashy Grub Pie

  • Treats:

- Frozen bloodworms

- Guppies

- Mollies

- Ghost shrimp

- Cherry shrimp