If you’re new to owning axolotls, one of the first things you’ll want to do is make sure their habitat mimics their natural environment as closely as possible. Axolotls come from the lakes of Mexico, where they thrive in cool, clean water and need plenty of hiding spots.
Setting up the right home for them not only keeps them healthy but also happy. A well-maintained environment is key to their well-being, and in this guide, you’ll get all the tips to create a perfect, natural habitat for your axolotl.
Let’s jump in!
Choosing the Right Tank Size for Your Axolotl

One of the most important aspects of setting up a natural habitat for your axolotl is selecting the right tank size. Axolotls need space to move around, and a cramped environment can lead to stress and health issues.
Axolotls can regenerate limbs and organs, with studies showing they can regrow a limb in about 30 to 60 days.
Minimum Tank Size
For a single axolotl, the minimum tank size should be 20 gallons (75 liters). This provides enough space for swimming and exploration. If you have more than one axolotl, go bigger—around 40 gallons (150 liters) for two.
Tank Shape
Axolotls are bottom dwellers, so the tank doesn’t need to be too tall, but it should have plenty of floor space. A long, rectangular tank is best. A 20-gallon tank is usually 24 inches (60 cm) long, which is a great size to give them room to roam.
Females can lay between 300 to 1,000 eggs during breeding.
Keeping the Water Level Right
Make sure the water level is high enough so your axolotl can swim freely but not so high that it’s overwhelming. Aim for a water depth of about 12-14 inches (30-35 cm). This allows them to float and move without feeling confined.
Setting Up the Water Environment
Axolotls come from cool, fresh water, so getting the water just right is essential for their survival. Water quality, temperature, and filtration are the three main things you need to focus on.
Water Temperature
Axolotls prefer cool temperatures between 60-64°F (16-18°C). Keeping the water temperature too warm can lead to stress and even shorten their lifespan. Use a water chiller if you live in a hot climate. Always avoid temperatures above 70°F (21°C), as that could harm your axolotl.
Fewer than 1,000 axolotls exist in the wild, making them critically endangered.
Water Filtration
Clean water is a must. Axolotls produce waste, and it can quickly pollute their habitat without proper filtration. A good sponge filter or canister filter is recommended.
Sponge filters are gentle on the axolotls, as they don’t create strong currents that could stress them out. It’s crucial to avoid using filters that create too much water movement, as axolotls prefer calm waters.
Dechlorinating the Water
Chlorine in tap water can harm axolotls, so always dechlorinate the water before filling the tank. Use a water conditioner specifically designed for axolotls or fish. Test the water for chlorine and ammonia levels using an aquarium test kit to ensure it’s safe for your pet.
Substrate Choices for Your Axolotl Tank
Choosing the right substrate (the material at the bottom of the tank) is key to mimicking a natural environment. The wrong substrate can cause injuries or affect water quality.
Best Substrates for Axolotls
Bare bottom tanks are often recommended for axolotls because they are easy to clean and prevent ingestion of substrate. If you prefer a more natural look, you can use sand or fine gravel. Avoid larger rocks or gravel that could be ingested and cause blockages.
Substrate Care
Keep the substrate clean by performing regular water changes and siphoning debris. If you’re using sand, make sure it’s fine-grain and smooth to avoid injury to your axolotl. Also, stir the sand occasionally to prevent gas buildup, which could lead to harmful toxins.
Creating Hiding Spots and Enrichment
Axolotls need places to hide and feel secure. A barren tank with no hiding spots can cause stress. Adding elements that replicate their natural habitat makes them feel comfortable and encourages healthy behavior.
Best Hiding Spots
You can use caves, PVC pipes, or rocks to create hiding spots. These objects provide the security axolotls need. Make sure they’re large enough for your axolotl to comfortably fit into but not so small that they get stuck.
Adding Plants
Live plants add a natural look to the tank, but they also serve as hiding spots and help maintain water quality. Opt for low-maintenance plants like Anubias, Java moss, or Hornwort, which thrive in low-light, cool water conditions. Live plants also help absorb nitrates, improving water quality.
Artificial Decorations
If you’re going with artificial decorations, make sure they have smooth edges and are made from non-toxic materials. Sharp edges can hurt your axolotl as they explore.
Lighting Your Axolotl Tank
Axolotls are primarily nocturnal and don’t need bright lighting. In fact, strong lighting can stress them out. Setting up the right lighting is simple but important.
Low Light Conditions
You don’t need a full-spectrum light for an axolotl tank. A low-wattage LED light or ambient light from the room is usually enough. It’s a good idea to set the lights on a timer, keeping them on for about 8-10 hours a day to mimic the natural light cycle.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Keep the tank out of direct sunlight, as it can cause the water temperature to rise and encourage algae growth. Too much light can also disturb your axolotl’s natural sleep cycle.
Water Quality and Maintenance
Maintaining good water quality is one of the most important parts of creating a natural habitat for axolotls. Bad water quality can lead to illnesses and stress.
Regular Water Changes
Perform 20-30% water changes weekly to keep the water fresh and clean. Use a siphon to remove debris and waste from the tank, and be sure to replace the water with dechlorinated water at the same temperature as the tank.
Monitoring Water Parameters
Test your water regularly to check pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Ideal pH for axolotls is around 6.5-8.0. Ammonia and nitrite levels should be zero, while nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm. If your tank is cycled properly, these levels should stay stable.
Tank Cleaning Routine
Along with water changes, clean the filter every few weeks and check for debris in the tank. Scrub any algae from the glass using a non-toxic algae scraper, and make sure decorations and substrate stay free of waste.
Feeding Your Axolotl in Its Natural Habitat
Creating a natural habitat isn’t just about the tank—it’s also about providing your axolotl with proper nutrition. In the wild, axolotls are carnivorous and eat small aquatic animals. Mimicking this diet at home is important for their health.
Best Foods for Axolotls
Feed your axolotl a variety of protein-rich foods. This can include earthworms, daphnia, bloodworms, and specially formulated axolotl pellets. Be sure to feed them twice or three times a week, depending on their age and size. Young axolotls will need more frequent feedings than adults.
How Much to Feed
Offer enough food that your axolotl can eat in 10-15 minutes. Remove any uneaten food to avoid water contamination. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and water quality problems.
Temperature and Seasonal Care for Your Axolotl
Axolotls need a stable environment, especially when it comes to temperature. You may need to make adjustments depending on the seasons.
Seasonal Changes
If you live in a region with seasonal temperature changes, use a water chiller to keep the water cool during summer. You might not need extra heating in winter, but always monitor the temperature.
If your home gets too cold, consider using an aquarium heater with a thermostat, but be careful not to let the temperature rise above 64°F (18°C).
Stress from Temperature Fluctuations
Sudden changes in temperature can stress your axolotl. Keep the temperature as stable as possible, and avoid moving the tank to a place where it’s exposed to drafts or sunlight.
Final Tips for a Healthy Axolotl Habitat
Creating the perfect habitat for your axolotl doesn’t stop at setting up the tank. Here are some additional tips to ensure their environment stays comfortable and healthy.
- Monitor their behavior: If your axolotl isn’t moving much or seems lethargic, it might be a sign of poor water quality or stress.
- Avoid overcrowding: More axolotls can mean more waste. Make sure your tank is large enough to comfortably house them.
- Be patient: It takes time to get everything right. Be consistent with water maintenance, temperature, and feeding.
Setting Up a Perfect Home for Your Axolotl
By following these tips, you can create a natural habitat that mimics your axolotl’s wild home. The right tank size, water quality, hiding spots, and food will make a big difference in their happiness and health.
Take your time setting up their home, and remember to maintain it regularly. With the right care, your axolotl will thrive in its perfect, natural habitat.
References
A Guide to Keeping Axolotls – NT Labs
Axolotl Tank – Our Aquarium Life
Axolotl Habitat – Axolotl Care Guide
Natural plant aquariums with an axolotl? – Reddit
Disclaimer
This content on Bagrica is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for pet care or farming advice. Bagrica is not liable for any actions taken based on this information.
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