So you’ve decided to get an axolotl as a pet. That’s great! But one question remains: How big of a tank does an axolotl need? You can’t get it too big, or too small.
Well, what tank size you want depends on the size of your axolotl. Generally speaking, a tank that is at least 20 gallons in size is recommended for adult axolotls. However, if you have a young axolotl, a 10-gallon tank will suffice. As your axolotl grows, you can gradually increase the size of the tank.
Now, to give your lovely axolotl a comfortable and spacious home, you need to know more about their tank sizes and related essential information. Here, I’ve tried to cover everything regarding the sizes of axolotl tanks and also included an in-depth FAQ section for your ease. So, keep reading.
What size tank does an axolotl need?
Axolotls love to have a spacious tank where they can move around and play. A 20-gallon (60L) tank will be ideal for your adult axolotl. Though juvenile axolotl can easily adjust in a 10-gallon (30L) tank, I would suggest you get a 20-gallon tank for your little one as well, so that you don’t need to buy another tank when it grows up.
However, If you don’t want to go for a 20-gallon tank right from the start, then make sure to change the water frequently as small tanks(10-gallon) populate very quickly. And, for keeping more than one axolotl, you need way more space.
Read More: How Big Do Axolotls Get?
Why does Axolotl Need Comparatively Bigger Size Tanks?
As I have mentioned earlier, axolotls are fully aquatic creatures, and they spend their entire life in water. They completely rely on gills for respiration.
So, unlike other land or semiaquatic animals, axolotls can’t just go to the surface of the water to breathe whenever they want or need to. Instead, they need a large tank, so they have enough space to swim around and explore. Here are some crucial reasons why Axolotls require larger tanks than other aquatic pets.
1. The tank requires lots of supporting things
Axolotls make a lot of mess as these voracious eaters love to consume plenty of food. As a result, the water quality of the tank degrades very quickly. Not to mention, axolotls also produce a lot of waste. So, you should place a filter inside the tank to make sure the water quality is up to the mark.
Another important thing that you need to put inside the axolotl tank is a water heater. Axolotls are very sensitive to changes in temperature. So, it is essential to maintain a stable water temperature inside the tank too.
You also need to provide hiding places inside the tank as axolotls are very shy creatures by nature. So, make sure to put some plants and decorations inside the tank, so your little one can hide whenever it feels threatened or uneasy.
All these things take up a lot of space inside the tank and that’s why axolotls require comparatively bigger tanks.
2. Gills need clean and filtered water
Another reason why axolotls require a spacious tank is that they breathe through their gills. So, it is crucial to maintain a high water quality inside the tank as dirty and unfiltered water can lead to gill damage.
3. More space means more happy axolotls
Axolotls are very active creatures, and they love to explore their surroundings. So, a larger tank gives them enough space to move around and play. As a result, they will feel more homely and comfortable inside a spacious tank.
Do remember, the size of the tank is not the only important thing. The shape of the tank is also crucial. So, make sure to get a rectangular tank instead of a cylindrical one.
4. Big tanks are easier to maintain
As I have mentioned earlier, axolotls make a lot of mess and their tanks need frequent cleaning. So, it is easier to clean a bigger tank than a smaller one. Moreover, you don’t need to change the water as frequently in a larger tank.
5. Big tanks are more stable
Another advantage of a big tank is that it is more stable than a small one. So, you don’t need to worry about the temperature or water quality fluctuations as much in a larger tank. It will make overall tank maintenance much easier for you and you can take care of your axolotl more effectively.
Do remember, a larger tank is not always better. You should get a tank that is big enough for your axolotl to move around and play freely. But, don’t get a tank that is too big as it will be difficult and costly to maintain.
3 Amazing Axolotl Aquariums Perfect for Any Home
Now that you know all the reasons why axolotls require bigger tanks, let’s take a look at some of the best axolotl tanks that you can buy. Here I’ve provided 3 different sizes of tanks.
1. Aqueon Glass Aquarium (20-Gallon Long Tank)
If you are looking for a 20-gallon tank for your axolotl, then the Aqueon Glass Aquarium is an excellent option. It is made of high-quality glass and silicone edges that make it very sturdy and durable.
The tank also has a watertight seal, so you don’t need to worry about any leaks. Moreover, it is very easy to set up, and it looks gorgeous when you add the perfect balance of decorations. This 30.5″ long and 13″ high tank is the perfect size for one adult axolotl.
2. Aqueon Glass Aquarium (40-Gallon Breeder Tank )
Introducing another excellent option from Aqueon, the 40-gallon breeder tank. Just like the 20-gallon tank, this one is also made of high-quality glass and silicone which makes it very durable. Its transparent glass walls give you a clear view of your axolotls, and it has a watertight seal to prevent any leaks.
This tank is the perfect size for two adult axolotls, measuring 36.19″ long and 16.94″ wide. Moreover, it is very easy to set up and supports a wide range of filters, heaters, and other accessories.
3. UNS 90U (68-gallon) Ultra Clear Tank
The UNS 90U is a beautifully designed 68-gallon tank that is perfect for axolotls. It has ultra-clear rimless glass walls that give you a clear and uninterrupted view of your axolotls. With 45-degree mitered edges, this tank has a very modern look that will complement any home decor.
You can easily house 2 or even 3 axolotls inside this robust tank. Overall, it is a high-quality tank that is perfect for axolotls, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
Some Important Questions And Answers Regarding Axolotl Tank Size
1. What size tank does an axolotl need?
Axolotls need a tank that is at least 60 cm in length (a 2ft tank). A larger tank is better, as axolotls like to have plenty of room to explore. It is important to note that, if you wish to accommodate more axolotls, you will have to increase the size (length) of the tank by 30 cm for each animal.
2. What is the minimum tank size for a single axolotl?
A ten-gallon tank is the minimum size for a single axolotl. However, bigger tanks provide more space and allow for a greater level of water filtration. Axolotls should not be kept in tanks with other fish, as they may encounter several issues. Additionally, it is important to use a filter in a small tank to help remove waste and debris.
3. What size tank does a full-grown axolotl need?
A 10-gallon tank would be fine, but a 20-gallon one will be more convenient. Axolotls can grow up to 18 inches long, so they need plenty of space to swim. They also need good filtration because they produce a lot of waste. So, a 20-gallon tank’s water is much easier to keep clean compared to a 10-gallon tank.
4. What size tank for 2 axolotls?
For 2 axolotls, a 40-gallon tank is good, but a 55-gallon one will be better. That’s because they need plenty of space to swim around and avoid getting bored. Plus, a bigger tank means there’s less chance of ammonia build-up (which can be harmful to axolotls). So if you can spare the extra space, go for the bigger tank.
5. How tall does an axolotl tank need to be?
You need a tank at least 2ft tall to house an axolotl. A tank that is too small will restrict their movement and can make them stressed or sick. Make sure to do regular water changes to keep these little creatures healthy and happy.
Questions And Answers Regarding Keeping Axolotl In Different Size Tanks
1. What is the smallest tank an axolotl can live in?
A 10-gallon tank is the absolute minimum size tank for one axolotl – any smaller, and you’ll likely be restricting their space too much. As Axolotls can grow up to 18 inches in length, providing them with plenty of swimming room is essential. However, you need to take special care of your axolotl if you intend to keep it in a 10-gallon aquarium.
2. Can 2 axolotls live in a 20-gallon tank?
Yes, but you shouldn’t do that. A 20-gallon tank is much too small for two axolotls to live comfortably. They would become stressed in such a small space and would be more susceptible to disease.
Read More: Axolotl Lifespan
3. Can an axolotl live in a 5-gallon tank?
No, an axolotl cannot live in a 5-gallon tank. They need a much larger tank with plenty of space to move around in order to remain healthy.
4. How many axolotls can I put in a 40-gallon tank?
You could put three or four axolotls in a 40-gallon tank, but I would recommend keeping at least 10 gallons of water per axolotl to ensure they have enough room to swim.
5. How many axolotls can I put in a 30-gallon tank?
You could fit about 2 or 3 axolotls in a 30-gallon tank. But don’t put more than 3 as too many axolotls in a small tank can lead to competition for food and stress among the animals.
Questions And Answers Regarding Cleaning and Maintaining Axolotl Tank?
1. How often do you clean an Axolotl tank?
One should typically do a 20-30% water change once a week, and clean the aquarium glass every 3 weeks. It’s important to keep the tank clean because axolotls are messy eaters, and they can produce a lot of waste.
2. How often should you change the water in an axolotl tank?
Axolotls do best when their water is changed by 25% once a week. This will lead to a monthly full water change. It’s important not to over-clean their tank, as this can be just as harmful as not cleaning it enough.
3. How do you clean poop out of the axolotl tank?
You can use a turkey baster to clean poop out of an axolotl tank. Just make sure you get all the poop out so your axolotls have a clean and healthy environment to live in.
4. Do axolotls need a full tank?
Some people say that axolotls do best in a tank with plenty of water to swim around in, while others say that they’re fine in a small tank as long as you change the water regularly.
I think the bottom line is that you should do what works best for you and your axolotl. If they’re happy and healthy in a small tank, then there’s no need to change things up just for the sake of changing things up. But if your axolotl seems to be struggling in a small tank, or if you just want them to have more space to swim around in, then by all means go ahead and give them a bigger tank.
Wrapping Up
Axolotls are interesting creatures and are great additions to aquariums. If you’re considering adding one (or more) of these amphibians to your tank, be sure to provide them with a large enough space that they can swim around in and explore. After all, an axolotl can live a long, happy life in your home if you have the right size tank.
