Keeping males and females together year round.

[Themaniac19]

So I'm looking to start breeding these guys and I know people keep both sexes together, but is it okay to keep them together year round? I don't want to stress out the females too much from constant breeding. I'm also wanting to get some opinions on keeping 4-5 axies in a 55gal. Is 5 too much even with good filtration (obviously not a strong current or anything)? Also should I make some levels (like stories of a house) in the tank to increase surface area?

 

[mistymuse]

I'm new to axolotls but from what I understand, it depends on the individual animals as to whether you can keep males and females together. It's hard on the females to produce eggs and breed frequently, and the males may harass them. But sometimes they don't breed as often and it works out fine, I think. IMO it's best to make sure there are plenty of hiding spots and be prepared to separate them if necessary.

I believe 5 axolotls in a 55 gallon is too much, floor space wise. It has slightly less floor space than a 40 breeder which is what I have (624 sq inches in 55g, 648 in 40B) and 3-4 axolotls are suggested for a 40 breeder. So I would advise against more than 4 in a 55.

Levels or platforms in your tank are a great idea! My axolotls seem to like hanging out on high surfaces and climbing on stuff.