Do Axolotls Need Air or Air Pump?
Axolotls are incredible creatures with unique adaptations that make them a wonder to watch.
However, they can also become quite demanding when maintaining their environment since they need water and an excellent hiding place without stagnating.
Whether you have just purchased an axolotl and are unsure how to take care of it, or you’ve been raising one for years now, this article answers all the questions you might have about their needs and what is required for them to live successfully.
How Often Do Axolotls Need Fresh Water?
According to the axolotl community, about every five days is a good number for the average axolotl to have as much water as they’d like.
Though every animal is different and your requirements may change, try not to be mean with your axolotl’s water supply, and don’t worry if you don’t see them drinking excessively after a day or two. As long as they have enough, that is all that matters.
How Does Axolotls Breath Air?
Axolotls breathe through their skin. This fact is essential considering that axolotls tend to stay in the water and drown if they exit it. The only exception is when they are out of the water at night, and the air becomes unusually dry (which can naturally happen during the summer).
Do Axolotls Need Air or Air Pump?
Yes, axolotls need an air pump when the axolotl’s tank does not have a filter. An air pump will support the axolotls and lower the risk of drying out. Axolotls need air to breathe, but they do not need an air pump to breathe. Air pumps are used for other reasons and can be confusing.
With Axolotls, Is Air Pump a Must?
No! An air pump is not a must. Some axolotl owners think that the air pump is a must to provide extra oxygen, but according to the axolotl experts, this is not true. Axolotls do not need air pumps because they are amphibians, so they use gills for breathing.
This means they do not need an air pump to breathe, but as aquarium owners, we like our pet’s comfort and pleasure, so we sometimes give it an air pump.
The main reason axolotls need an air pump is that they breathe naturally through their skin and cannot suffocate or drink water in dry conditions.
Why Is It Important To Have Aeration for Axolotls?
Axolotls breathe through a bag-like organ called the amniotic membrane. It takes in outside air, adding oxygen to the water. This causes the water near their body to be warmer and more comfortable.
Air pumps work similarly to how a humidifier works. They provide water with oxygen which changes its PH level and makes it more comfortable for axolotls to stay in it.
What Is the Best Kind of Air Pump To Use?
Axolotls don’t need anything too specific regarding air pumps since they are relatively simple. One small air pump will work for a 10-gallon tank or a larger one, although it might be necessary to have a larger one if you have several axolotls or if you plan on having more in the future.
A small aquarium air pump is best as long as it is powerful enough for the size of your axolotl’s tank and does not have any motors that can cause vibrations that could harm your pet.
How Often Should You Change the Air Pump?
It would help if you changed the air pump once a week or as often as you feel necessary, depending on how much your tank requires. You can clean the filters on the pumps by rinsing them out with water, but you do not need to keep buying new ones.
If the filters become too blocked, which happens from time to time, take them out and rinse them with water, and then put them back in. Make sure to rinse your axolotl’s tank with fresh water when you do this, especially if it has been a while since you last cleaned it.
What Is the Best Substrate for Axolotls?
Many substrates are available for sale, including aquarium-made and zoo-made options. For new owners, you might want to consider purchasing a sand-based substrate such as that sold by Zoo Med, as it is often less porous and will hold up well to the acidity in their water.
If you are located in an area with a viable clay source, then using one of those could be perfect for your axolotl’s environment. Wood chips or sawdust can be used if you live somewhere with abundant wood since they have a nice feel to the skin.
How Big of a Tank Do You Need for an Axolotl?
You’ll need to consider several factors when selecting the right tank. The first is the size of your pet, with a good rule of thumb being that one gallon per inch is an excellent way to go.
The other aspect to consider is the number of pets you might want to keep in a single habitat. That will determine how much space they each need in their domain.
If you’re just getting started, then going with around a 10-gallon tank will probably be sufficient for one axolotl, and you can always upgrade later if desired.
Popular Axolotl Tank Accessories
There are many different accessories that you can get for your axolotl tank. Some of these include a lid, lights, decorations, and accessories to help them in becoming a more hygienic pet.
The lighting can be used by itself or come with a humidity controller so that there is no over-watering of your axolotl’s habitat.
Other accessories you might want to consider include a basking rock, logs, ceramic rocks, and a thermometer. Some people also find that it helps add some form of filtration.
Axolotls can be a great addition to your home if they are cared for properly. Caring for an axolotl is not challenging, but some considerations must be considered and addressed if the pet is happy and healthy.
This includes providing enough space, the right temperature, and food. If you do all you can to provide them with healthy habitat, they should live as your favorite pet for many years!
