Question: New Axolotl....and sick.

[mmcgee]

Hello all. This is my first post on the site so first, let me thank you all for the help you've given through the different posts in my search for knowledge of axolotls. I've decided to turn a 55 gallon tank into an axolotl tank, and got my first 3 today. 2 wild types, and 1 gold albino. About an hour after they arrived the breeder called me and apologized. He said that the person who shipped them out, shipped the wrong golden albino. The gold albino (now named Gator) was smaller (2 inches) than the 2 wild types (both 3 inches) and the person was supposed to send me another one of the same size. He offered to send me a new one and let me keep Gator, but I had already gotten attached to em and told him I would keep him and he didn't have to do that. He told me if anything happens he would send me another one no charge since it was so young. "I breed many axolotls but I only have one reputation" were his words. Long story short, I noticed Gator wouldn't go to the bottom of his tank. I then realized he couldn't go to the bottom of the tank and would try to but literally bounce back up. He was only in a gallon fish bowl until I got something bigger for him. After reading more, I realized it is probably gas bubble disease. I followed the direction for putting him in the fridge posted on your site. My questions are:

1. In your opinion did I take the correct steps to help Gator?
2. Should I try to feed Gator while he's in there or should I wait till he comes out?
3. Generally how long will it take for Gator to reach a size where he can go with the other two?
4. Is the 55 too big for the two 3in (8cm) 'lotls to go in?

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advanced.

 

[Bellabelloo]

You have done what I would do While he is in the fridge, offer live food daily.
With regards to the growing, this depends on good food and genetics. In average I would say a juvenile, fed well will grow approx and inch a month until they reach their adult size. Mine around 7 years old and still are growing at a much much slower rate.
With regards to the tank size, I wouldn't worry too much. Just offer food to each axolotl in their own spot.

 

[mmcgee]

Thanx. I've gotten both of my wild types in their new home and the seem to be enjoying it. And Gator loves the black worms, the moment it squirmed in his face, it was gone. So at lease he feels good enough to gobble that down. .