Beginner Axolotl Checklist: Everything You Need Before You Buy
Getting your first axolotl is exciting — but to keep your new pet healthy and stress-free, you need to prepare ahead of time.
Axolotls are low-maintenance compared to many exotic pets, but they still have very specific care needs.
Here’s your complete beginner axolotl checklist, so you know exactly what to buy, prep, and test before bringing your new aquatic friend home.
✅ Axolotl Tank Setup Essentials
🐟 Tank
Minimum 20-gallon long tank (for 1 axolotl)
40-gallon breeder recommended (more stable water + upgrade room)
Bigger tanks = less stress, easier water management.
💨 Filter
Sponge filter or gentle hang-on-back filter
Avoid strong water flow — axolotls dislike current
Run the filter 24/7 to support the nitrogen cycle
🧱 Substrate
Bare bottom or ceramic tile (for axolotls under 5")
Fine aquarium sand (for adults 5"+)
❌ Avoid gravel or pebbles — they can cause deadly impactions if swallowed.
🪨 Hides & Decorations
Smooth PVC pipes or caves
Soft silk or live plants (Java Fern, Hornwort, Anubias)
No sharp or jagged edges
Hides help reduce stress and provide places to rest during the day.
💡 Lighting
Low lighting only — axolotls prefer dim environments
Dimmable LED or just ambient room light
🌡️ Temperature Control
Ideal temp: 60–65°F
Use:
Fans
Frozen water bottles
Room AC
❌ Never use an aquarium heater — warm water is dangerous to axolotls.
🧪 Water Test Kit
API Freshwater Master Kit (or similar liquid test kit)
You’ll need to monitor:
Ammonia (0 ppm)
Nitrite (0 ppm)
Nitrate (under 40 ppm)
pH (around 7.4)
Water quality = axolotl health. Never skip this!
✅ Water Conditioning Supplies
✅ Essentials:
Water conditioner (like Seachem Prime)
Dechlorinator (removes chlorine and chloramine)
Ammonia source (for fishless cycling if cycling from scratch)
✅ Feeding Tools & Food
Earthworms (best staple food for all sizes)
Soft sinking axolotl pellets
Bloodworms, Repashy Grub Pie, or blackworms (for juveniles)
Feeding tongs or a small feeding dish
Turkey baster for cleaning up uneaten food
✅ Optional (But Helpful)
Aquarium lid or mesh cover
Axolotls can jump!
Aquarium thermometer
Digital or floating, for daily temp checks
Net or container for safe transfers
Live plants or floating shade
❗Before You Add Your Axolotl…
Make sure your tank is fully cycled:
Ammonia = 0 ppm
Nitrite = 0 ppm
Nitrate = slowly rising
If you’re unsure what cycling means, read our full guide:
🧪 [How to Cycle an Axolotl Tank]
🐾 Final Thoughts
The more you prepare before your axolotl arrives, the healthier and happier they’ll be.
Use this checklist to gather everything you need before you order, and double-check your tank is ready and stable.
Need help picking supplies or want us to check your setup?
Reach out via our [Contact] or explore our full [Axolotl Care Guide] — we’re here to help new owners every step of the way.