Change this article to a list of instructions.

Proper Axolotl Aquarium Size
Since axolotls are bottom-feeding animals, the height of their aquarium is not as important as the length and width of it. Reaching an adult size of up to 10 inches in length or more, your axolotl needs plenty of room to turn around and fully extend its body in any direction. If an axolotl’s habitat is too small, it can cause stress for the animal, which can lead to health problems in the long term.

To accommodate the lifelong growth of your pet, we recommend nothing smaller than a 30 or 40-Gallon Breeder tank, along with a lid to prevent the axolotl from jumping out of its enclosure (it’s happened before!). This is a common aquarium size and they are readily available at most pet stores and fish shops.
Axolotl Aquarium Filtration

Axolotls evolved in the relatively still waters of Lake Xochimilco in the valley of Mexico. Therefore, you should avoid using filters and equipment that produce a high amount of water flow and surface agitation in your axolotl’s aquarium.

At the same time, axolotls also produce a significant amount of waste which can quickly pollute their water if there is inadequate filtration in the tank. Canister filters, hang-on-back filters, and internal filters with adjustable flow rates are all ideal—providing three types of filtration (mechanical, biological, and chemical) to help your axolotl thrive.

Another benefit of these three types of filters is that they allow you to aim the filtered water towards the surface of the tank. This helps prevent a buildup of debris and small particles from accumulating and creating a glossy film on the surface of the water.

A less expensive option, while not as effective, is a sponge filter. Although they lack chemical filtration, they still provide adequate mechanical and biological filtration as long as they are large enough to accommodate the filtration load of the aquarium and its resident(s).

Sponge filters will collect debris, waste, and other free-floating particles while simultaneously supplying plenty of surface area for beneficial bacteria to develop.

Filters do not eliminate the need for regular maintenance. All aquariums require routine maintenance to keep them running at their optimal performance, and to keep the animals living there happy and healthy. Practicing a regular water change routine and performing regular water tests is essential to make sure your axolotl’s environment is as comfortable and healthy as possible. There are many filter options available on the market. Here are some we recommend based on our many years of experience keeping aquatic animals:
Proper Axolotl Aquarium Size

1. Select an aquarium your Axolotl can grow and be comfortable in. Axolotls are bottom feeders and can grow up to 10 inches. They will need to be able to turn and extend its body in any direction. 

2. Make sure it's not smaller than a 30 or 40-gallon breeder tank and don't forget the lid. An axolotl can jump out of its enclosure. 

3. Choose a filter without a high amount of water flow or surface agitation in your axolotl's aquarium. Axolotls come from Lake Xochimilco, which has relatively still waters, so you want to recreate this environment.

4. Choose an adequate filter for the high waste amount of an axolotl. Canister filters, hang-on-back filters, and internal filters with adjustable flow rates are ideal and will help your axolotl thrive. 

5. Consider a sponge filter. These are not as effective but are less expensive. They can provide adequate mechanical and biological filtration as long as they are large enough to accommodate the filtration load of the aquarium and its residents. 

6. Complete routine maintenance. All aquariums need routine maintenance to keep them running and keep their inhabitance safe and healthy. It will need regular water changes and tests. 