New to this

[saints78]

Hi guys i am new to the axolotl world i have had my for just under a week ans so far so good. i am cycling my water with kermit in thats my name for it lol so far my amonia is 0 and ph is about 6.5. i am wondering if this tank set up is ok for my friend.thanks

 

[Otterwoman]

Welcome to the forum! If no one answers here, try the "Help" section.

 

[Donna001]

Hi Saints78 and welcome to the forum. :happy:
Do you also check the nitrite and nitrate levels as well as ammonia? How about the temperature? Axolotls - Requirements & Water Conditions in Captivity
I have a slight concern with the size of the pebbles I can see in the sand and I'm trying to work out if they are small enough for your axolotl to swallow, which would be very bad news. It might be safest to either just have the sand, or have larger pebbles/rocks so that Kermit doesn't swallow any.
Axolotls - Housing in Captivity
Ideally it would be better to cycle your tank without Kermit in it.
Kermit is an absolute cutie and it would be great if you could keep us updated on your progress, and occasional pictures (we love pictures).
Wishing you the best of luck with your new pet.

 

[cbee44]

I would definitely take out the rocks. Be sure to test the water paramiters frequently as the tank cycles using API Masters Test Kit for freshwater.

 

[saints78]

Hi thanks for the tips i have removed the stones and tested the nitrate and there fine as for the temp it is a nice cool 18 degress and have tested the ph and ammona its all good

 

[AxolotlChris]

Cycling your tank with your Axolotl in can harm your Axolotl as Ammonia and Nitrite is toxic.

If you are going to cycle with your Axolotl in the tank (which isn't advised) you should be testing for Ammonia, and Nitrite, nearly everyday to make sure they don't reach a toxic level, you can perform water changes to keep the levels down to 1.0-0.25ppm.

A lot of users on this forum use and recommend this test kit including myself: Welcome to API Fishcare: FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT This liquid test kit is far more reliable than test strips.

The cycling process can take from 3-6 weeks. For your tank to be cycled, a beneficial bacteria needs to be present to break down the Ammonia and Nitrites into Nitrates. Ammonia and Nitrites are lethal to Axolotl and are produced from your Axolotls waste and decomposing food. Nitrates are a less toxic by product. During cycling the beneficial bacteria will colonize your tanks surfaces such as substrate, ornaments, filter, and begin to feed on the Ammonia turning it into Nitrites, then bacteria will break down the Nitrites into Nitrates. The bacteria is known as a biofilter, as it filters the ammonia and nitrites into less harmful nitrates.

Read these articles on cycling:

Caudata Culture Articles - Water Quality
Caudata Culture Articles - Cycling
How to Cycle a Fish Tank
Axolotls - Requirements & Water Conditions in Captivity
Axolotls: The Fascinating Mexican Axolotl and the Tiger Salamander





Cycling is key to your Axolotls health

 

[saints78]

thanks