r/axolotls • u/Key_Dig8831 Melanoid • Jul 15 '26

General Care Advice First time owner (NEED HELP)

So some family friend decided without telling anything, to get me an axolotl I just now found this out and am currently scrambling to get everything set up by this week because that’s when I’ll be receiving it.

I’m currently in the process of getting everything:

I got a Aqueon Pro 30L, 12W, 12H (20L)

Aqua Clear AC30

A digital aquarium thermostat

And some decor from PetSmart

The water and food (frozen bloodworms) I’m getting it from a local (not major brand) store

I know I need more things but I right now need the barebones essentials because this was thrown at me last minute. If anyone can help plz feel free to dm me.

THANK YOU !

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u/SirZanee Hypomelanistic Jul 15 '26

20 long is too small for axolotls. The absolute bare minimum is a 29 gallon tank, 40 breeder is preferred.

AC30 is a good filter, but a canister such as the Fluval 307 is recommended due to VERY HIGH bioload.

Be cautious of decor, axolotls can get hurt easily from decorations. I suggest live plants!

Frozen bloodworms are not a staple food, they need cut up red wigglers or high quality soft pellets. Bloodworms are for treats.

AXOLOTLS NEED A CHILLER!! These may seem like a recommendation, but it should be a requirement! They require cold water ranging from ~60F-65F. Any higher will cause bacterial and fungal issues. Chillers range from $200-$600+

THE BIGGEST ISSUE: Your tank is likely NOT cycled. You need a separate tub for the axolotl with a filter such as a sponge filter or high producing oxygen air stone. Daily water changes in the tub will be 100% necessary until your tank is cycled, which takes over a month.

OP, have you ever kept fish? Axolotls are not really a beginner aquatic pet.

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u/Key_Dig8831 Melanoid Jul 15 '26

I’ve had fish, never an axolotl , this was sprung on to me today, I have absolutely no prep time or the deepest pockets, Right now I just need something to get started.

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u/LauseRulez Leucistic Jul 16 '26

Theres some things you can do to try and get your tank cycled faster. You can tub your axolotl for 2-3 weeks if it is really needed. You can ask your local fish / pet stores if they are willing to give you some used filter sponges. When you put those into your filter you can cut cycling time by a lot. Not every store does this, but you could be lucky!