How many axolotls can I have in a 40 gal?

[ktcwgrl]

Hi there,
How many axolotls can I have in a 40 gal, 36" x 18" x 16"? Is there a rule of thumb for the number of axolotls to gals? Thanks!

[Jason R Davis]

This is a much debated topic and has many different answers. I would say it depends on the size of your axolotls. If they are adults 4 at most and that would depend if they were on the large side or small side.

The 40 gal you have is a breeder size tank and while a bit deeper it is 12 inches shorter than a 40 long. I have 5 adults in a 40 long. They all get along and there is no nipping, they do not look cramped The other side of the coin besides just space is the amount of waste they can put into the water. and even a well established and cycled tank if not given enough media to house the helpful ammonia killing/converting bacteria will crash and the ammonia levels will spike out of control.

I would play by what you see and what the water quality tells you. These little guys are kept in shoe box containers in labs all stacked up in nice rows and columns.

Good Luck.

[ktcwgrl]

Thanks, very helpful I think I will do just that.