Question: New 47 gallon tank - advice needed!

I've got a 180 litre tank that's currently being used for tropical fish but they are about to get moved to another tank to make room for a couple axolotls.
i've never kept an axolotl before so have a few questions i'd appreciate some help with...

firstly, is a 180l tank big enough for two or would i be better to get one?

what type of filter would work best and are there any specific brands or models i should look out for?

i was planning to use large gravel or small pebbles but i've seen some info on the web that advises using either this or sand.

any other advice for a novice?

i'm waiting for a book to get delivered but i'd appreciate some different points of view and advice from anyone who can help.

thanks

elcaptano said:

firstly, is a 180l tank big enough for two or would i be better to get one?

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180L is great for 2 Axolotls, they will have lots of room!

elcaptano said:

what type of filter would work best and are there any specific brands or models i should look out for?

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You will want an external canister filter. This type of filter is easiest to maintain while also being most effective at keeping water clean and healthy. The 2 best brands out there (in my opinion) are Fluval and Eheim. I personally have a Fluval, and I love the filter. For a tank your size, the Fluval 205 or Fluval 305 would be suitable.

elcaptano said:

i was planning to use large gravel or small pebbles but i've seen some info on the web that advises using either this or sand.

any other advice for a novice?

Click to expand...

For a novice you have 3 options.
1) Sand. Most people swear by it. Easy to clean, no worrying about anything being swallowed (like small gravel), and looks good.
2) Bare bottom. Even easier to clean, but doesn't look as good as sand.
3) Slate bottom. As easy as barebottom to clean, but harder to aquascape your tank (can't root plants in bottom and whatnot)

I hope this helps, sounds like you are more than ready to care for an Axie!

thanks

thanks very much for the tips, once i get everything up and running i'll post a picture to let you see how it turns out (hopefully in the next couple weeks).

cheers.

I´m one of those crazy guys who swear by sand xD Just don´t have a layer thicker than an inch and you´ll be safe.

Since you are a newcomer i think i´d better say, are you familiar with cycling? You can read about it on the CC articles (link in my signature). Read as much as you can before getting the axolotls, that way you´ll be ready for any eventualities.

thanks for the tip, i am familiar to an extent as i done this when i first got my fish, but probably didn't prepare the tank enough, i'll make sure and do it right this time - the link to the articles was a big help!

i was also reading up on different types of food for them, but there seems so much choice - what do people find their axies prefer or does it just depend on what the pet shop stocks? is it best to order a certain type of food over the internet if it's not available locally?

so many questions!!!

thanks again for advice

Depends on the age, but if you get them past their juvenile stage, then Earthworms Earthworms Earthworms! Nothing will provide your axolotl with the nutrition it needs more than your good old fashioned, dug up from the garden earthworm. Just make sure that if you plan to dig them up yourself the source is pesticide and fertilizer free. If you don't have a garden, I know there are places around Europe who sell worms online.

Yes worms worms worms lol. Our axie we started on worms and she loves them it so funny seeing them with one hanging out of their mouths.:happy:

ok, worms it is then! thanks again for all the advice, if anyone has any more advice they think i'll find useful then let me know!

i've ordered my filter online and started moving my fish to their new home so hopefully i'll have everything up and running in the next few weeks.

fantastic website by the way, loads of good info and the forums are great!

i've taken some photos of how my tank is looking so far so i'd appreciate any advice, ideas or comments that people have on it before i get my axolotls...

i've got about 2cm of play sand as substrate (i just realised there's a few bits of gravel on top of it so i'll take them out)
there are 6 live plants in total, not sure if maybe i should use artificial ones instead or as well as. there's also an artificial tree type tunnel in it and a plant pot for shelter/hiding. i've put some pebbles on the bottom as well, is this too many?

i've got a fluval 205 filter with a home made spray bar which i'll turn down as much as i can before the axies take residence.

like i say, any comments would be appreciated