If you are planning to keep an axolotl, cycling your aquarium is a crucial first step. Axolotls are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality, and without a properly cycled tank, harmful toxins can accumulate, endangering their health. In this blog post, you will learn why cycling your aquarium is essential, how to do it specifically for an axolotl, and what the minimum requirements are for their housing.

What is aquarium cycling?

Cycling an aquarium refers to the process of establishing a biological balance where the water chemistry is safe for your axolotl. During this process, beneficial bacteria develop in the filter and substrate, which break down ammonia and nitrite (dangerous byproducts of waste), into less harmful nitrate. Without these bacteria, your axolotl would be exposed to potentially deadly substances.

Photo by Wikimedia.org

How to cycle an aquarium for an axolotl?

Cycling a tank for an axolotl differs slightly from doing it for fish, as axolotls prefer cooler water (between 16-18°C) and have specific care needs.

Loading full article...