Caudata.org Newt and Salamander Forum http://www.caudata.org/forum/ en-GB Sat, 25 May 2013 14:21:03 GMT vBulletin 240 http://www.caudata.org/forum/images/vbseo_skin_2.0/misc/rss.jpg Caudata.org Newt and Salamander Forum http://www.caudata.org/forum/ Newbie in yorkshire http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f1158-introductions-area/91475-newbie-yorkshire.html Sat, 25 May 2013 11:58:15 GMT Just to say hello to you all Just to say hello to you all ]]> Introductions Area baitmanx http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f1158-introductions-area/91475-newbie-yorkshire.html Safe Materials for Building and Landscaping Vivaria and Enclosures http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f6-vivaria-enclosures-product-reviews/f7-general-discussion/91474-safe-materials-building-landscaping-vivaria-enclosures.html Sat, 25 May 2013 11:21:51 GMT After perusing the build related threads of this site, I have noticed that quite a few people besides myself are building their own custom... After perusing the build related threads of this site, I have noticed that quite a few people besides myself are building their own custom enclosures. I have also noticed that many people (including myself) have made mistakes that put their animals at risk, or made it so they had to redo something rather labor intensive. My hope is that this thread will become a sticky to help people quickly identify the materials they can use for creating and landscaping all sorts of enclosures.

Disclaimer: The following suggestions are compiled from this site and others and are, to the best of my knowledge, safe. I am not an expert, and can provide no guarantee that they will not harm your creatures. I will accept no responsibility for any harm that befalls them because you were too lazy to do your own research. Always use caution and common sense.

Safe wood (taken from Caudata Culture):
Note: always sterilize your wood by boiling it for >6 hours. Do not boil in pots or pans lined with teflon or other plastics. Do not use ANY woods that are not listed. Do not use driftwood from salt water or live wood. Do not use any wood that is inhabited, or destroy habitats on purpose (Illegal in some states and frowned upon amongst the community).

Safe in dry and wet setups:

  • Ash, wood and bark
  • Aspen, wood and bark
  • Bamboo
  • Cork Bark, soaked thoroughly
  • Coconut, husk and shell
  • Driftwood, sterilized
  • Madrona, wood and bark
  • Mopani, aquarium version only
  • Resin composites made for aquarium use
Safe only in dry setups:
  • Bald cypress, bark
  • Cactus skeleton
  • Date Palm
  • Fir, bark only
  • Grape wood
  • Maple, wood and bark
Safe Adhesives:

100% Silicone Adhesive that is Food and/or Aquarium safe (Will state on product).
Food-Safe Epoxy Resin

Anything that explicitly says on the package that it is food or aquarium safe is probably fine.

NEVER USE SILICONE WITH MOLD, MILDEW OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF SPECIAL RESISTANCE!!! ALWAYS ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME FOR THE PRODUCT TO CURE (>24hrs, 48 is better)!!! IF IT STILL SMELLS LIKE VINEGAR OR CHEMICALS IT HAS NOT FINISHED CURING!!! ALWAYS WASH ADHESIVE AND SURROUNDING SURFACE AFTER IT HAS CURED!!! USE OTHER ADHESIVES AT YOUR OWN (OR RATHER YOUR PET'S) RISK!!!

--Even food/aquarium safe adhesives leach small amounts of chemicals (albeit FDA approved), so imagine how bad non food/aquarium safe products are with no FDA regulation. Equipment sharing could also leave trace amounts of unintended chemicals. It is worth spending a few extra dollars to ensure the safety and longevity of your animal. Even if they look okay you can't tell if they are suffering from long term chemical exposure that can shorten lifespan and compromise their immune system.

Safe Rocks:
Note: Boil rocks in a manner similar to wood if they are taken from outside (Careful handling them afterwards as they will stay hot for a long time). Never use rocks with sharp edges. Never use rocks small enough to be swallowed. Also, I accept no responsibility for scratches caused by rocks, nor injury caused by them.

Granite ONLY if it does not have pyrite (fool's gold), an iron ore.
Jadeite
Jasper ONLY if it is the solid red type
Obsidian
Onyx
Quartz
Slate

Rocks to avoid:
Crystals or Geodes if not otherwise listed (Many leach harmful minerals)
Dead coral (Environmentally unfriendly and impossible to remove salt)
Gypsum (Causes high pH issues)
Limestone (Causes high pH issues)
Marble (Causes high pH issues)
Pumice (Because it cant be boiled and it has sharp edges)
Sandstone (Because you can't really tell what is in it and it is very porous meaning it can trap chemicals and other pollutants)

--DO NOT USE ANY ROCKS WITH A METALLIC APPEARANCE AS THEY PROBABLY HAVE A HIGH MINERAL CONTENT!!!
--DO NOT USE ANY BRIGHT RED ROCKS AS THEY PROBABLY HAVE A HIGH IRON OR MERCURY CONTENT!!!

--Test for rocks: put vinegar on rock, if it fizzes do not use it! (Limestone is an example)

Safe Plastics:

Acrylic (If your tank is not glass it is probably this)
PLA (Decomposes eventually, a naturally derived plastic)
ABS (Used in Legos and most filters)
PVC (Reports on the safety of PVC are conflicting, since so many people use it it is possibly safe but I would not recommend it.)
Most plastics used in food containers are probably safe but reports/info about their use for this purpose is scarce.

Plastics to avoid:
Fiberglass
Anything that has gotten very hot, melted (including chemical melting), or been exposed to harsh chemicals.

Other Things to avoid:
--Caulking, chemicals, grease, varnishes ect...
--Clay (unless you have sealed it thoroughly)
--Metal of any type (in tank)
--Tape (in tank)
--Foam (unless you have sealed it thoroughly, most types are toxic and if not it can still chip, break, or decompose into harmful pieces)
--Dead moss sold in stores, it is often treated with copper salts which are poisonous.
--Bark sold in stores, it is often treated with pesticides.
--Sphagnum moss (Some causes low pH and all can cause a nasty disease called Sporotrichosis)
--Lichen, I have tested many types and they all seem to lower pH.
--Moss that you have not pH tested. (Crush it and make a tea from it to test, should be ~7 +/- 1 at most)
--Don't use wood from a hardware store for landscaping without sealing it, as it is frequently treated with chemicals and is of an unknown origin. Better to avoid completely in tank.
--Working extra late to finish early. Leads to mistakes that will slow you down in the end.
--Building around pets with flea medicine, as hair and dander with the pesticide can get into the project. (If it cant be avoided just make sure you rinse/wash really well when done)

Feel free to contribute any build experience/tips, materials (if you are SURE it is safe, I'm talking research or at least multiple testimonials, not personal experience/preference), or anything else you think will help those starting a build project. ]]> General Discussion Lugubris http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f6-vivaria-enclosures-product-reviews/f7-general-discussion/91474-safe-materials-building-landscaping-vivaria-enclosures.html Firebelly not eating http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91473-firebelly-not-eating.html Sat, 25 May 2013 09:26:18 GMT I have recently moved my first ever caudata which I've had for 3 years, my Chinese firebellied newt, into a new tank. He has been in there for about 3 days but although my many attempts he is just not interested, can anyone please help me out? ]]> Squirt88 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91473-firebelly-not-eating.html <![CDATA[What's going on with him?! He's flipping his gills!]]> http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91472-whats-going-him-hes-flipping-his-gills.html Sat, 25 May 2013 07:10:26 GMT Hey everyone!

So the new axie I got seemed to be doing fine until today.

He hasn't eaten and he is hiding in his hide, but the odd thing is he's flipping his gills back and forth a LOT. :confused:

Is he stressing because of the different water and new environment?

Should I be worried? Well, I am worried, but should I be?:(

I am having a cloudy water issue. It's not horrible, but I did leave the room dark today in an effort to slow/ kill the algae in the water and will be doing so again tomorrow.

Any help would be great! ]]> Sick Axolotl? karipatra http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91472-whats-going-him-hes-flipping-his-gills.html Axolotl attacking his tail http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91471-axolotl-attacking-his-tail.html Sat, 25 May 2013 05:23:29 GMT Hello everyone. I have 2 axolotls that live in separate tanks. Every once and a while I come home and the larger one has a chunk taken out of his... Hello everyone. I have 2 axolotls that live in separate tanks. Every once and a while I come home and the larger one has a chunk taken out of his tail. Considering he is alone in the tank and I do not find pieces of his tail I can only assume he is attacking his own tail. Normally I don't worry about it but this time it is bad. What can I do to prevent this?

Pictures Included:Click the image to open in full size.
Click the image to open in full size.
Click the image to open in full size. ]]> Sick Axolotl? Spytma http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91471-axolotl-attacking-his-tail.html <![CDATA["Rescued" Lotl]]> http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f62-axolotl-gallery/91470-rescued-lotl.html Sat, 25 May 2013 00:20:26 GMT This is my little man, Abner, after the pig from Hey Arnold!. I got him from someone that was not able to give him the care he needs. I'm not exactly sure how old he is, but I can sex him. His gills are slowly starting to grow back and I am super happy with how much better he looks! He is also growing wonderfully! :D

The first picture is after the first week, after filling his tummy twice a day with blood worms and live black worms. The other pictures are from today's tank clean out. He is in a 10G tank, without a filter,I give him 100% water changes each day. His filter is collecting lots of bacteria in my goldfish tank. He will have a home in a 40G breeder in couple of weeks, after I move. :)
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]]> Axolotl Gallery Kristen0888 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f62-axolotl-gallery/91470-rescued-lotl.html Eating out of Bowl http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91469-eating-out-bowl.html Fri, 24 May 2013 23:51:37 GMT I've been reading many forums that talk about substrates and eating. I have sand which I've heard is "ok" but read somewhere that a bowl can help contain food and decrease sand eating. Well, I have adorable pics of Harry- first time in the bowl...Attachment 31089Attachment 31090Attachment 31091Attachment 31092Attachment 31093
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]]> Axolotl General Discussion Krispen http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91469-eating-out-bowl.html Illness/Sickness: Swollen Waltl Chin (Video) http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91468-swollen-waltl-chin-video.html Fri, 24 May 2013 23:26:50 GMT This P. waltl female had some swelling on the underside of the head, which resolved itself in around a day. Before that though, she had been acting... This P. waltl female had some swelling on the underside of the head, which resolved itself in around a day. Before that though, she had been acting as if choking, and something was stuck in her throat (which there wasn't). Attached is a video of such behavior, and I am mystified about the reason why it happened. weird - YouTube

Any idea what it could have been?
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]]> Newt and Salamander Help jasper408 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91468-swollen-waltl-chin-video.html H.orientalis with popei-like trait? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91467-h-orientalis-popei-like-trait.html Fri, 24 May 2013 22:51:56 GMT I had a bunch of larvae a while ago and now that they have morphed I am noticing that several of them have whitish patches on their backs kind of... I had a bunch of larvae a while ago and now that they have morphed I am noticing that several of them have whitish patches on their backs kind of like popei. One of them is virtually covered in these whitish patches... They are all pale brown rather than dark brown / black like most of their siblings. I will post a photo soon... Just wondering if anyone has seen this before? ]]> Jesper http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91467-h-orientalis-popei-like-trait.html Tiger Salamander Temporary Home http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91466-tiger-salamander-temporary-home.html Fri, 24 May 2013 22:35:24 GMT As I had posted yesterday, I recently took in a young Tiger Salamander from a friend who was unable to care for him anymore. I am COMPLETELY new to... As I had posted yesterday, I recently took in a young Tiger Salamander from a friend who was unable to care for him anymore. I am COMPLETELY new to owning any type of amphibious pet. After making sure he was, in fact, a Tiger Salamander I was advised to remove him from his aquarium and put him in a proper tank with substrate. I will be getting a larger tank in the near future but for now he's in a tank with the same width and length of a 10 gallon (it's length is about 3/4 of that of a ten gallon). Is this an okay size? I also added some "Tropical Soil" made from coconut fibers as directed by many Tiger Salamander websites. I put him in his new home with a shallow bowl of water to submerge himself in and watched for a couple minutes to ensure his new home would work for him. I noticed his skin started drying (the coconut fiber is moist) and he immediately dove back into the water. What can I do to help him adjust to his substrate? By the way, this is just a temporary setup until I can get him a proper hide, water bowl, and a larger tank.

I apologize for the second picture, I realize it probably isn't too helpful. I'm just extremely worried that I'm going to mess up and hurt him.
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]]> Newt and Salamander Help axyl97 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91466-tiger-salamander-temporary-home.html Question: First time rearing babies. Some spontaneously dying! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f61-axolotl-eggs-larvae-breeding/91465-first-time-rearing-babies-some-spontaneously-dying.html Fri, 24 May 2013 21:15:19 GMT Hi guys! A couple of weeks ago my 2 axys laid eggs and they hatched recently. The babies are 2-3 days old and seemed to be doing ok till today. I... Hi guys!
A couple of weeks ago my 2 axys laid eggs and they hatched recently. The babies are 2-3 days old and seemed to be doing ok till today.
I noticed 4 of my 45 babies dead and removed them. But the most disturbing thing was when I was watching one of them swim around n disturbing the other guys it suddenly stopped, rolled on its back and died!!! :'( why? The waters clean and they have plenty of daphnia. I expected a few deaths before they get their legs but not like this. ]]> beckwan http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f61-axolotl-eggs-larvae-breeding/91465-first-time-rearing-babies-some-spontaneously-dying.html Filter for 4ft/110l tank http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91464-filter-4ft-110l-tank.html Fri, 24 May 2013 20:35:09 GMT Hi

I'm going to be setting up a 4ft/100l tank soon for my axolotl (looking into getting a 2nd soon). I was wondering if anyone had any advice on what filter to get. I was looking at a Fluval U3 but was thinking that parts of the tank would become stagnant? any advice? ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate aidenmoore http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91464-filter-4ft-110l-tank.html Cloudy water issue :( http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91463-cloudy-water-issue.html Fri, 24 May 2013 19:58:32 GMT Hey everyone!

Well, my tank has developed a slightly cloudy water issue that seems to have gotten a little worse the last day or so. I'm thinking that it's from the bag of river rocks that I got from the pet store, even though I washed them well. :rolleyes:

All of my water peramiters are great otherwise.

It's got a slightly green tinge, so thinking it's algae. I read somewhere that the only way to deal with it was to totally darken the tank. But how do I do that without compromising the air?

Or is there another option in getting rid of it?

Thanks for the help and have a great 4 day weekend! :D ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate karipatra http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91463-cloudy-water-issue.html Question: Setting up queries... http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91462-setting-up-queries.html Fri, 24 May 2013 18:57:23 GMT My partner and I are setting up our tank for an axolotl. The tank has been set up for 3 and a bit days and we have our old filter and an ornament... My partner and I are setting up our tank for an axolotl. The tank has been set up for 3 and a bit days and we have our old filter and an ornament from our cold water tank in there to help grow bacteria etc. we have bought an api liquid test kit but it has not arrived yet (ebay) so we have been using the tetra 6 in 1 test strips....

Every time we test it says the nitrate is excessively high, done a 25% water change and a 50% one earlier today. But also our tropical tank has tested high for nitrate and that has been set up for almost 6 months with no deaths or health issues with the fish, so I don't know if it is the strips not working properly?

Few questions...

Could I use a bit of water from the tropical tank to help with bacterial growth in axolotl tank? I was just concerned with the treatments etc that are in the tropical tank being harmful to the axolotl.

We were planning to have the tank set up 6 weeks ago but family issues have prevented this so was only able to do it this week, only thing is a pet shop locally was holding a juvenile for us as cant find the, very often near us and we were meant to pick it up tomorrow!...can we still pick it up if we do a water change daily and then when the api test kit comes; test daily with that etc. or would it be too risky and dangerous?

Sorry for the long post! ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate Craigy http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91462-setting-up-queries.html FYI: Salamander mystery http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91460-salamander-mystery.html Fri, 24 May 2013 17:24:06 GMT Hi, I've just gotten through my second batch of salamanders and thought I should post what I discovered for anyone else raising salamander larvae to adult. In the beginning of the hatchlings I lost as many as 6 per day I couldn't figure out why and tried absolutely everything. I researched and researched whether water haardness had anything to do with this and found nothing conclusive. My water was perfect except as hard as hard can be so I began using tap water conditioner and 1/2 gallon reverse osmosis and 1/2 gallon tap water. It softened the water without depleting the mineral content they need. So if anyone is having trouble and doing everything suggested in terms of caring for their babies I suggest trying this it immediately made a difference. Now all that's left is to identify my salamanders since they didn't turn out to be the spotted I gathered last time :) ]]> Newt and Salamander Help starshy http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91460-salamander-mystery.html Question: Once a week feast? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/91458-once-week-feast.html Fri, 24 May 2013 15:00:47 GMT Hey guys, Quick question. When I get Whooper back and my new addition of Murlo, would I be able to feed them ONCE A WEEK but give them a feast at... Hey guys,

Quick question. When I get Whooper back and my new addition of Murlo, would I be able to feed them ONCE A WEEK but give them a feast at that point in time? I would like to stop the amount of nitrates building up in my tank so its either get rid of the substrate and allow them to have a bare bottom tank or take them out for the once a week change and feed them both then?

Would this cause too much stress? I have no idea. My tank was never exactly amazingly crystal clear when I had her and I believe it was due to the shrimp that I first fed her - bad idea from the guy at the pet shop -_- - just degrading in my gravel. I then got a syphon for gravel but it took too much water out my tank to actually do the water change!

I think, taking into account that Bloodworms are really messy - theres so many of them! - that I really am just contemplating doing it out of their tank.

Any suggestions or advise?

Thanks,
Tom :) ]]> Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) MiseryInc http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/91458-once-week-feast.html <![CDATA[Photo: Some beautiful" black children" O(∩_∩)O~]]> http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f62-axolotl-gallery/91457-some-beautiful-black-children-o-_a-o.html Fri, 24 May 2013 14:40:28 GMT Hello dear friends:p
My little friends are about 95 days now,they are beautiful and healthy.I took some photos today and I'd like to share with you.

This one I bought from shop 20days ago,now she's much different from when I bought her.
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They are about 15cm
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I put them here when I was changing water
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:o
Are they cute? ]]> Axolotl Gallery lingkongczx http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f62-axolotl-gallery/91457-some-beautiful-black-children-o-_a-o.html Will she make it? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91456-will-she-make.html Fri, 24 May 2013 14:01:25 GMT I have an adult female lotl and recently I had put a few juveniles with her since they were over 6-7inches a few days after they were in with her... I have an adult female lotl and recently I had put a few juveniles with her since they were over 6-7inches a few days after they were in with her they chewed 3of her legs over night.

She's doing fine now eating and swimming around and I separated her from everyone else. Water conditioners are normal and I'm changing every few days.

Do you think her limbs will grow back? Is there antibiotics that I can put into the water to help her? Idk what to do beside a lot of water changes and making sure she's doing fine. Will post a pic later.. ]]> Sick Axolotl? B3llaax3 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91456-will-she-make.html Question for UK shanjing keepers http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f31-crocodile-newts-tylototriton-echinotriton/91455-question-uk-shanjing-keepers.html Fri, 24 May 2013 10:34:43 GMT Have any UK shanjing keepers had eggs this year? Mine usualy breed every year, but this year nothing. Only reason I can think of is the wierd... Have any UK shanjing keepers had eggs this year?

Mine usualy breed every year, but this year nothing.
Only reason I can think of is the wierd weather we have had this spring-summer.

Native newts started coming back to my garden ponds in mild days in feb as usual , then we got ice and snow.
As spring came along, no spring like weather, and that has continued, with us only having a few days of temperatures expected here in Doncaster right up untill now.
Newt returns[also frogs] to my ponds are way way down on what was expected.

My newt room is unheated, and the shanjing get just indirect sunlight, and I am wondering if the unusual temperatures may have stopped the breeding? ]]> morg http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f31-crocodile-newts-tylototriton-echinotriton/91455-question-uk-shanjing-keepers.html Question: Organic chicken manure help please! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/91453-organic-chicken-manure-help-please.html Fri, 24 May 2013 10:20:47 GMT Hi all, Just some quick advice if anyone can help, i was feeding my axolotls earthworms, but the other day me and mum decided to do the garden and... Hi all,

Just some quick advice if anyone can help, i was feeding my axolotls earthworms, but the other day me and mum decided to do the garden and ive turned the patch i got worms from into a veggie plot, and i raked in some organic chicken maneure pellets to help the veggies obviously. However now im unsure if i can still feed the earthworms to my axies?

Its completely organic stuff but dont want to make them ill so theyve only eaten bloodworm since. Please any advice would be great!

Thanks:rolleyes: ]]> Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) AxieNewbie http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/91453-organic-chicken-manure-help-please.html PH, Amonia, nitrite and nitrate . http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91452-ph-amonia-nitrite-nitrate.html Fri, 24 May 2013 07:37:30 GMT Im getting a axolotl soon and im about to start cycling my tank it is 14 g and im getting 1 axolotl and im getting a water test kit and i was just... Im getting a axolotl soon and im about to start cycling my tank it is 14 g and im getting 1 axolotl and im getting a water test kit and i was just wondering how i can keep my PH amonia nitrite and nitrate down.
i'm using a filter from my fish tank and then putting it back in the fish tank and putting my new filter in and possibly some water as well
I'm getting my axolotl in 1 month but ive already got my tank.
and with my water tester should i try to keep amonia ph nitrate and nitrite all down to 0
i also am getting real plants and im using driftwood, and the filter i am using is a sponge filter.
if you can help it would be great :D ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate animal man http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91452-ph-amonia-nitrite-nitrate.html Swollen jaw of california newt. help! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91451-swollen-jaw-california-newt-help.html Fri, 24 May 2013 06:31:46 GMT Does anyone know what this could be? it showed up literally over night. her jaw is swollen and she keeps rubbing it on different surfaces Does anyone know what this could be? it showed up literally over night. her jaw is swollen and she keeps rubbing it on different surfaces
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]]> Newt and Salamander Help gnarglesaur http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91451-swollen-jaw-california-newt-help.html Mosquito larvae http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91450-mosquito-larvae.html Fri, 24 May 2013 06:28:38 GMT Can axolotls eat mosquito larvae and would a young adult notice them and i also have some Minnoes and think they might breed could i feed my minnoes... Can axolotls eat mosquito larvae and would a young adult notice them
and i also have some Minnoes and think they might breed could i feed my minnoes to them when i go away or not ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate animal man http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91450-mosquito-larvae.html In need of some ACF froglet advice http://www.caudata.org/forum/f53-other-amphibians/f54-anura-frogs-toads/f79-pipidae-african-clawed-toads-surinam-toads-aquatic-frogs/91449-need-some-acf-froglet-advice.html Fri, 24 May 2013 05:47:05 GMT Hey all! Hopefully if you guys don't know, someone can point me toward someone who does. I recently (Tuesday Afternoon) acquired what I was told were African Dwarf Clawed Froglets only to discover that they were ten young African Clawed Frogs (three tadpoles, two still absorbing their tails, and five newly morphed froglets). I got them from an elementary school teacher who had them in the classroom so her students could watch them morph so I figured they were probably ACFs...but I didn't realize there would be tads and froglets both.

So, a tiny bit of scrambling and much head-scratching later...I decided to put their terribly small container of only three inches of water in the basement (which is probably a bit too low in temp now that the weather changed abruptly from high 80s to low 70s. Ugh.) so that they wouldn't overheat while I acclimated them to my dechlorinated aged tap water which I'm sure is quite different from whatever spring/distilled/bottled water they had. Some sites say change the water daily, others say daily water changes will kill the tads so you should only do a small water change once a week (if ever while they're still tads :eek: ). So I've just been taking out a little bit of water and junk off the bottom. Probably done maybe a quarter change over the last couple of days. Everyone seems to be doing alright with the changes so I hope I'm acclimating them slowly enough. But this is leading to some other questions.

1) One of the newly-morphed froglets (still has a teeny tiny nub of a tail as of today) is the largest at about nickel size. The smallest froglet is dime-sized. Do I need to be concerned that dime-froglet will become a snack? I'm trying to feed them enough without overfeeding them. (Zoomed tad/frog bites atm. I'm ordering HBH but it will be a couple days. They seem to like the Zoomed well enough. Nice feeding response from everyone when it's put in). But according to some, I absolutely should not separate the froglets until all of them have morphed. On the other hand, Nickel Froglet has gotten noticeably bigger since Tuesday while Dime Froglet has stayed about the same. I notice occasionally that a couple of froglets will get into a tussle over the same bit of food (at least I think that's what they are doing when they are both heading for some food and one seems to grab onto another 'by mistake.' I'm 'feeding as directed' as best I can at the moment, but as many of them are around the same size, it's difficult for me to make sure everyone is getting their fair share.

2) When froglets are...well...froglets, is it actually possible for me to overfeed them, or can I just keep dumping in pinches of food every five minutes or so for about an hour until the food stops disappearing (which is kind of what the bottle says) or just drop in 'x' number of pellets per frog and call it a day (which is also what the bottle says).

3) I'm pretty sure that two of the tads are starting to morph. They look like they have fully developed front and back legs, and one of them was completely uninterested in food today, but just wanted to rest around like the froglets do. The last tad barely has nubs for front legs. This is another 'when to separate' question as I'd like to move everyone into a larger set up which I can hopefully manage the water conditions (temperature, changes, etc) a bit easier.

4) How deep is too deep for the water level? I have 20 gallon tank that I'd like to put them in as a bridge between ridiculously small container and 90 gallon tank (I have a 50 gallon rubbermaid in between if need be). I'd like to skip the 10 gallon so I don't have to just move them in again in a month or so, but I don't want to drown them by filling the 20 gallon up higher than they can swim. Nobody seems to be having trouble making the three inches they're in now to come up for air. Does anyone have a ballpark figure for me, or should I just start with about six inches and 'build up' an inch a week or something? Would it help if I constructed a 'low water area' like people do for turtles?

5) If I only fed the froglets in either a feeding dish or pellets from the surface (occasionally their current pellets float but they've been champs about figuring it out and doing alright thus far. One took in a little air the first time I fed them, but he was back down comfortably within ten minutes), how early would it be safe to put in a substrate like pool filter sand (really fine grain)? I don't want to hurt them, but I've got them some little terra cotta pots for them to hide in in the tank and I'd rather not have to silicone them to little saucers or something to get them to stay in one place and not roll around without a substrate. But if that's what they need, it's what they need. :)

I tend to be a bit of a worry wart when it comes to my wet pets and furry friends. :o I appreciate any and all advice anyone on here has to give. ]]> sabre http://www.caudata.org/forum/f53-other-amphibians/f54-anura-frogs-toads/f79-pipidae-african-clawed-toads-surinam-toads-aquatic-frogs/91449-need-some-acf-froglet-advice.html Pics from backpacking trip http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f24-photo-gallery-video-gallery-technique-discussion/f25-photo-video-gallery/91448-pics-backpacking-trip.html Fri, 24 May 2013 05:42:21 GMT Here are a couple pics I took of what I think are 5 lined skinks that I saw on top of a mountain on the Appalachian Trail yesterday. Not an... Here are a couple pics I took of what I think are 5 lined skinks that I saw on top of a mountain on the Appalachian Trail yesterday. Not an amphibian, but I thought I'd share anyway.
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]]> Sanshouo http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f24-photo-gallery-video-gallery-technique-discussion/f25-photo-video-gallery/91448-pics-backpacking-trip.html Is there a manufactured axolotl food? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91447-there-manufactured-axolotl-food.html Fri, 24 May 2013 04:57:15 GMT Hey guys, I was wondering if there is a manufactured axolotl food on the market? If not, is there another manufactured food that works just as well?... Hey guys, I was wondering if there is a manufactured axolotl food on the market? If not, is there another manufactured food that works just as well?

Thanks!

Saphira ]]> Axolotl General Discussion Saphira101 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91447-there-manufactured-axolotl-food.html Why to not handle amphibians http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f5-general-discussion-news-members/91446-why-not-handle-amphibians.html Fri, 24 May 2013 03:24:19 GMT I have read in so many places that you should never handle amphibians, but I have never come across any reference that shows empirical evidence why.... I have read in so many places that you should never handle amphibians, but I have never come across any reference that shows empirical evidence why. Can somehow please post a link to a study that looked at why handling amphibians is bad for their health? ]]> Hydro033 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f5-general-discussion-news-members/91446-why-not-handle-amphibians.html Cynops cyanurus (Blue tailed newts) lay eggs http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91445-cynops-cyanurus-blue-tailed-newts-lay-eggs.html Fri, 24 May 2013 02:27:44 GMT :d:d:d:d:d:d:d :d:d:d:d:d:d:d
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]]> zhanggeer http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1173-advanced-newt-salamander-topics/f30-species-genus-family-discussions/f33-fire-belly-sword-tail-newts-cynops-hypselotriton/91445-cynops-cyanurus-blue-tailed-newts-lay-eggs.html Tail cut http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91444-tail-cut.html Fri, 24 May 2013 01:56:57 GMT This just happened in the last 15 minutes or so. I went to go wash dishes and I came back and his tail had a cut. I was so diligent as to not put... This just happened in the last 15 minutes or so. I went to go wash dishes and I came back and his tail had a cut. I was so diligent as to not put anything sharp in there. I don't know how this could've happened! I leave for vacation tomorrow so I can't really stay around and monitor him, and that's what worries me. Will he be alright? Is there a high chance for bacterial/fungal infection? How long does it usually take for something like this to heal? I wouldn't normally be too worried, but I'm fixing to be gone for four days and I don't really know what to do. Advice?
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]]> Axolotl General Discussion Gangsterluff http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91444-tail-cut.html Uk courier http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91443-uk-courier.html Fri, 24 May 2013 00:45:58 GMT I am looking for a courier to ship axolotls and other amphibians around the UK. Does anyone know which couriers are ok to ship live animals and dont... I am looking for a courier to ship axolotls and other amphibians around the UK. Does anyone know which couriers are ok to ship live animals and dont charge the earth ? ]]> Axolotl General Discussion xxianxx http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91443-uk-courier.html What else can I feed him?! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91442-what-else-can-i-feed-him.html Fri, 24 May 2013 00:11:36 GMT Hey everyone!

So, I got my 2nd axolotl yesterday, and he's a big healthy juvi.

My question is this: he's used to eating worms, guppies, the occasional pellets.

All I have is pellets and frozen blood worms. Is there anything else I can get for him to help keep him full? 'Cuz he's all about the FOOD.

Thanks and have a great 3 day weekend! :D ]]> Axolotl General Discussion karipatra http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91442-what-else-can-i-feed-him.html Question: Im planning on getting a newt(s)! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91441-im-planning-getting-newt-s.html Thu, 23 May 2013 23:59:00 GMT Im going to my local reptile expo on June 22 and hoping they have newts! Ive been looking into spanish ribbed newts and fire bellieds. It such a hard... Im going to my local reptile expo on June 22 and hoping they have newts! Ive been looking into spanish ribbed newts and fire bellieds. It such a hard decision though.. I want them in my 29 gallon.. I will have a turtle dock an i will take this ish out.. The current substrate is sand but i would be willing to change it.. I think i'll just want one spanish ribbe or two fire bellies.. Can the species mix? Also, if they dont have any at the expo, does anyone know if backwaterreptiles is a good place to order them? Thanks! (Sorry if this is confusing, im new to all this!) ]]> Newt and Salamander Help helms97 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91441-im-planning-getting-newt-s.html Can my hatchlings survive on ostracods? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f61-axolotl-eggs-larvae-breeding/91440-can-my-hatchlings-survive-ostracods.html Thu, 23 May 2013 23:00:43 GMT this is all I really have to feed them (a very abundent supply i might add) can they survive on this? I thought the slightly larger ones would be ok,... this is all I really have to feed them (a very abundent supply i might add) can they survive on this? I thought the slightly larger ones would be ok, not sure about the littler ones tho? I did read sometimes they go through undigested because of their shells? I am worried they may not go through at all? ]]> jelly http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f61-axolotl-eggs-larvae-breeding/91440-can-my-hatchlings-survive-ostracods.html Many questions from a first time axolotl owner! http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91439-many-questions-first-time-axolotl-owner.html Thu, 23 May 2013 21:06:58 GMT Greetings! I've been a pet owner all my life, but this is my first time owning an axolotl. Like with any pet, I did research before buying my new friend - How to set up the tank, what they eat, etc. but I didn't expect to be such a worry-wart once I'd gotten it home! I've lurked over these forums since I got it, and have learned a lot more than my initial research taught me, but I decided to register to get more in-depth information from the helpful people here at Caudata.org.

I guess what I'm really looking for here is a little advice and a lot of reassurance.

Attached, are pictures of my new 'lotl and a picture of it's current tank set-up.

A little background information: I've had my 'lotl for 11 days now. When I got it, it was around 2 inches long, and it is now somewhere around 3 inches. I purchased a five gallon tank because I underestimated the size of my desk, but plan on moving the lotl into a 10 gallon once it grows larger. It eats ravenously and is very alert and active. The breeder had begun feeding them bloodworms when I purchased it, and the 'lotl ate them initially, but soon became uninterested in the thawed out food so I moved on to earthworms/redworms that I found in the yard.

Tank: The initial tank set-up had a sand substrate, a plastic rock cave & fake plant, various rocks, and a filter. I have since added a piece of store-bought drift wood (which I soaked before adding), a suction-cup betta leaf rest, four live plants, a java moss ball, and an airstone. The sand seems to flow right out the other side of his gills if he gets a little in his mouth, and I'm very happy with this, as I have read all about the dangers of impaction.

I do not, as of yet, have tank readings for you all, but will purchase a test kit as soon as I have the funds to do so (sometime within the next 10 days). Do know, however, that I dechlorinate the water and keep the water as cool as I can (the thermometer strip I have doesn't go below 22 C, and the reading doesn't even register on it, so I believe it to be somewhere below that.) I have also read on the benefits of tannins and live plants, and hope that the tank will be suitable with small water changes until I can purchase the test kit.

To buy list:
10 gallon tank, when needed
Test kit for PH, ammonia, etc.
Turkey baster
Airstone valve
Ghost shrimp?
Guppies?
Small container for future worm farm?

Concerns:

  1. My pump output is now set at a trickle, but my axolotl seems to love both the flow of the filter intake (it lays directly beneath it) and the outflow of the airstone (which I've recently crimped off to restrict airflow.) I cannot tell if he truly enjoys riding the airstone current, or if the bubbles stress him out, which is why I've since turned it down. Is it normal for an axolotl to enjoy current? I've read that they enjoy still waters.
  2. I have also read that axolotls hate bright light, but my lotl seems to enjoy hanging out in the sunlight which comes from the window. I try to place the curtains in a way that will minimize sunlight on the tank, but still provide a little indirect light for the plants.
  3. My driftwood has recently (yesterday) developed what I believe to be a fungus. I've read that this wood fungus is harmless to fish, and feeds off the nutrients in the wood. The axolotl shows no signs of fungus. Is he/she truly safe from this wood fungus?
  4. Will ghost shrimp eat the wood fungus and also be suitable tankmates for my axolotl? I know that the shrimp could become possible prey for the 'lotl and would not mind providing them as snacks, as long as my axolotl's safety is not jeopardized by the shrimp. Will they go after the axolotl's gills like fish do?
  5. I have several worms which I've been keeping in a jar with moist toilet paper. The worms have actually been ingesting and expelling the toiletpaper, which was a concern for me. Am I right in assuming that a 'lotl should not ingest toiletpaper? I've been squeezing it out of the worms before feeding to make sure he doesn't eat the stuff.
  6. How often should I feed my juvenile axolotl? I've read many mixed messages on this, from 2-3 times a day, to every 2-3 days. I've been feeding it daily, in the evening, and sometimes give it a snack in the morning if it seems particularly hungry.
  7. I'm interested in adding other live foods to his/her diet as he/she grows. I have thought about starting a small guppy colony. Will guppies peck at the gills, or are they very docile? I also wonder if slugs are too slimey for a 'lotl to swallow. Can pillbugs and other beetles be ingested, or are the shells too hard (like mealworms)? Is there a danger of insects like beetles biting/harming the 'lotl?
  8. What is the best way to feed an axolotl? It will not come to the water's surface to feed. I have been carefully aiming and dropping the worm bits into the water in hopes that they will land somewhere near it's head and then attract it's attention, but often times the 'lotl is more interested in staring at me and swimming against the glass than eating the worm squirming under it's tail. I wish I had a very long pair of tweezers, to be honest.

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]]> Axolotl General Discussion Misterbluesky http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91439-many-questions-first-time-axolotl-owner.html First Time Salamander Owner, Unsure of Species http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91438-first-time-salamander-owner-unsure-species.html Thu, 23 May 2013 18:56:35 GMT Hi there, I'm pretty new to this website and to being the owner of a salamander. Yesterday I was given what was supposed to be a salamander from a friend of mine because her parents were tired of it being in the house and were gonna throw it in the yard. She had it in a ten gallon aquarium full of water and was feeding "salamander pebbles". She got the salamander from a seasonal kiosk in our local mall which called them baby dinosaurs. She told me he was a Tiger Salamander but after showing both a neighbor, who has dealt with reptiles and amphibians all her life, and a friend's mother (who breeds frogs, snakes, and the occasional newt), they both came to the conclusion that he is not a Tiger Salamander. Could anyone help me identify him? I'm at a standstill with his care because I'm not sure of what he actually is. Thank you! ]]> Newt and Salamander Help axyl97 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91438-first-time-salamander-owner-unsure-species.html <![CDATA[Children's book]]> http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91437-childrens-book.html Thu, 23 May 2013 16:39:15 GMT This looks like a very nice book. Buzz Words: Alex Cottle Axolotl (http://www.buzzwordsmagazine.com/2012/03/alex-cottle-axolotl.html) This looks like a very nice book.

Buzz Words: Alex Cottle Axolotl ]]> Axolotl General Discussion Tephra http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f57-axolotl-general-discussion/91437-childrens-book.html The shine http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91436-shine.html Thu, 23 May 2013 15:02:39 GMT I have this male FBN and he appears to have *the shine* It started as a tiny darker spot 3 or 4 years ago and gradually looked like a piece of skin... I have this male FBN and he appears to have *the shine*
It started as a tiny darker spot 3 or 4 years ago and gradually looked like a piece of skin that wouldn't shed properly... it got a bit icky looking, white, fluffy, but mostly like dead skin that wouldn't come off... he started biting at it. I was desperate to treat it, so I used un-Newt-approved API fungus cure. That seemed to help quite a lot but didn't remove it. I treated for weeks. Then he went terrestrial.
He's been on land for over a month. He still looks pretty normal and has always been with other Newts. They don't catch it.
He's 10 years old, so I'm doing something right-ish...
I have pictures from today, I want to try to add them.
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]]> Newt and Salamander Help PowerNewt http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f47-newt-salamander-help/91436-shine.html Did I Crash My Cycle? http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91435-did-i-crash-my-cycle.html Thu, 23 May 2013 13:38:34 GMT So after struggling with getting my tank cycling for almost a month, it finally started working magic. I decided last night I should add a bit more... So after struggling with getting my tank cycling for almost a month, it finally started working magic. I decided last night I should add a bit more ammonia because it had dropped to about .25 ppm and I didn't want to starve my bacteria, but when I went to add a few drops, I accidently added way too much and it jumped my ammonia up to about 8ppm. I VERY QUICKLY did a water change which dropped it to about 4ppm, but I'm just worried I may have crashed my cycle by

a) adding too much ammonia at one time

b) doing a water change

I haven't done a test yet today as I'm about to run out the door to walk my husband to work, but if anyone knows without the current readings if I could have crashed it and if there's anything I can do to prevent it from crashing that would be appreciated. I'll post readings in 30 minutes when I get home. ]]> Axolotl tank set-ups, filters, substrate knyptozoologist http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f59-axolotl-tank-set-ups-filters-substrate/91435-did-i-crash-my-cycle.html Empty Tank http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f5-general-discussion-news-members/91433-empty-tank.html Thu, 23 May 2013 10:35:44 GMT I have a left over ten gallon tank on my shelf just begging to be filled I'm thinking about a pair of S s gigliolli but I'm not sure. what do you think would be good? ]]> Squirt88 http://www.caudata.org/forum/f1-general-topics/f5-general-discussion-news-members/91433-empty-tank.html Illness/Sickness: Naughty Little Parasites http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91432-naughty-little-parasites.html Thu, 23 May 2013 09:12:56 GMT So very recently i've noticed small white specs swimming around the tank. They look very unusual like small fish and can move like hell. They seem to be rather keen on sitting on my 2 Axie's. The Axie's aren't really worried about them at all, both are behaving normally and eating normally.
Water temp : 15 degrees
PH: 6.8-7
KH: 100
Nitrate: 0
Nitrite:0
Amonia: 0

This water has been filtered for 2 weeks prior to adding my axie's and had no parasites before adding them, the tank is a 96L, however they still insist on sitting on eachothers heads in one corner .
To me there is nother to suggest they are unhappy. My plan is to take a sample of water to an aquarium to see if they know what the hell these little kritters are!

Any information and suggestions would be greatly appriciated as i'm very much in love with my little newty's and would hate for something to happen to them :(

Cheers Amy xClick the image to open in full size. ]]> Sick Axolotl? Missamyy http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/91432-naughty-little-parasites.html