Question: Please help a Newbie with her Tank!

[kCm]

Hello.
I am extremely new with Axolotl's but I am very interested in getting a pair of Juvies. I currently have a 29 Gal aquarium at my disposal (I just need to check the seals) I am just concerned about the space they will have as they are growing. I am always open to upgrading but at the moment I want to make sure I have an adequate tank size for them before I dive into cleaning and set-up.

As I understand it sand is the best substrate for these little guys but that also is a concern to me. I am an LVT (licensed vet tech) in my state and have questioned my boss who has some aquatic knowledge and he seemed concerned about sand substrate as we have seen animals (mostly non aquatic) become terribly impacted with sand(granted we dont have alot of aquatic patients, mostly turtles but we do look into other animals a times). I understand that gravel is bad as they are bottom feeders but I was curious if there any other option. I've heard of slate being an option. How many of you have had success with that?

I was also interested in purchasing a Python to help with cleaning, have any of you used these before? I am unsure if sand would be an issue with these types of cleaners.

I would love to see pictures of everyones tank set ups so I can get a good idea of what supplies I will need. I currently have plans to acquire some plants, caves/pipes, and some marimo moss balls, and possibly a few snails along with any other supplies I may need such as testing kits, filters, air stones etc. Please bear with me as I am very new to all of this but I would be very appreciative of any information you all could give me.

Thank you for taking the time to read all my jabber!!

 

[IanF]

29 gallons is more than enough for 2 even as adults. Sand doesn't cause impactation with Axolotls usually, but if you're worried about it just leave the base of the tank bare. This makes it easier to clean although isn't as appealling to the eyes.
Getting any form of cleaners is a bad idea. The Axolotl will try to consume them, and in the end no one will end up very happy. Just add in the extra time for cleaning rather than do something risky. It's the same deal with the snails. As for pictures of setups, if you go onto the gallery, there are several good ideas. For example Greeneyes's (whos a member on this forum) set up could give you an idea of what to plan it out like. It's really up to you aslong as you know its safe. Enjoy setting up your tank, it's the funnest part.

 

[kCm]

29 gallons is more than enough for 2 even as adults. Sand doesn't cause impactation with Axolotls usually, but if you're worried about it just leave the base of the tank bare. This makes it easier to clean although isn't as appealling to the eyes.
Getting any form of cleaners is a bad idea. The Axolotl will try to consume them, and in the end no one will end up very happy. Just add in the extra time for cleaning rather than do something risky. It's the same deal with the snails. As for pictures of setups, if you go onto the gallery, there are several good ideas. For example Greeneyes's (whos a member on this forum) set up could give you an idea of what to plan it out like. It's really up to you aslong as you know its safe. Enjoy setting up your tank, it's the funnest part.

Thank you very much for your reply. My main concern with the sand besides impaction is using the Python. It's basically a vacuum for your aquarium. I was concerned that the sand might interfere with the cleaning. I don't think the axies will have a problem with the cleaner itself because I will be the one controlling it and its too large for them to even dream of eating.
As for the snails I was thinking of getting a few Apple snails. But that isn't a definite just yet. I was also thinking of getting slate for the tank as well. But I am still in the planning stages. I just want to make sure I have everything I need for my axies when I decide get them. :happy:

 

[IanF]

I feel silly, no wonder I'd never heard of a 'python', I geuss it was instant reaction to assume it as a bottom feeder. By the sounds of it your well researched and you should be fine.

 

[kCm]

I feel silly, no wonder I'd never heard of a 'python', I geuss it was instant reaction to assume it as a bottom feeder. By the sounds of it your well researched and you should be fine.

haha it's ok. I guess I shouldn't have assumed everyone would know what a Python was. I had never heard of one until a girl at my work suggested I should get one. Most of my aquarium knowledge is coming from her as she used to work for a pet store ages ago. I just want to make sure my new babies have a wonderful home!