Questions before I buy an Axolotl

[That one wolf]

I've been looking to get an axolotl, I was wondering what levels I should keep the water at? ph and all that good stuff, I just want to clarify this is safe and comfortable for one. from what I gathered the specific gravity of 1.010-1.13, ph of 7.2-7.7, with the ammonia, nitrate/ite are at or close to nonexistent

Are they okay with tap water as long as its been treated? and or spring water is better? or does it half to be brackish?

 

[Axolotl:D]

Hello, That One Wolf. From what I've heard the ideal Ph for an Axolotl is 7.4 to 7.6. However, I know someone who told me that they can adapt from 6 to 8 if needed. Also, I would suggest using spring water but I see no reason why treated tapwater would be unusable. Hope this helped!

 

[That one wolf]

Alright, thanks!

 

[AMurry24537]

I've been looking to get an axolotl, I was wondering what levels I should keep the water at? ph and all that good stuff, I just want to clarify this is safe and comfortable for one. from what I gathered the specific gravity of 1.010-1.13, ph of 7.2-7.7, with the ammonia, nitrate/ite are at or close to nonexistent

Are they okay with tap water as long as its been treated? and or spring water is better? or does it half to be brackish?

Being able to use tap water depends on what the water is like in the area you live. Usually, it works fine with a water conditioner (removes chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, etc.) such as SeaChem Prime, which is safe for axolotls (not every product that is safe for fish is safe for axolotls). Spring water is good, but will be more inconvenient and expensive in the long run. I would say not to use it unless there's something unsafe about the tap water (such as that it's too hard, has too much ammonia already in the watet, etc. to easily treat). It does not have to be brackish, but a little salt can be good for axolotls. For ammonia and nitrites, they should always be at 0 ppm, but while you cycle, they may be higher. Because these two are toxic, you will need to do frequent water changes during cycling IF you don't cycle before getting your axolotl. I strongly recommend artificially cycling your tank using liquid ammonia BEFORE getting your axolotl. This will greatly reduce stress to your axolotl and give it a better chance at survival and general health. Be aware that this can take anywhere from 3-10 weeks, with the longer end of the spectrum being more likely especially if you are inexperienced. Nitrates are less harmful to your axolotl, so as long as they are kept below 40 ppm (live plants are the easiest way to accomplish this), it is fine.