How To Cool The Aquarium Water Of An Axolotl?
The axolotl is one of the most fascinating amphibian species that we can find in nature, as it remains in a permanent aquatic larval state, unlike other newts and salamanders. This animal can be a curious pet, but the axolotl tank should stay cool all year round, something not everyone can achieve.
Next, we’ll give some tips that every axolotl tutor should keep in mind. To withstand the hottest seasons and preserve this amphibian, some energy and logistical sacrifices will be required. If you want to keep your pet’s aquarium cool in warmer environments, read on.
Why is temperature important for axolotl?
The axolotl ( Ambystoma mexicanum) is a caudate amphibian endemic to the lake system of the Mexico basin. This animal has been bred in captivity for decades and, therefore, many terrariophile lovers have already had the opportunity to acquire a specimen at some point in their lives.
Most informational portals indicate that the water in this animal’s aquarium should remain at a constant temperature of 20 degrees or less, although in Xochimilco and Chalco, places where the axolotl lives, ambient temperatures of 30 degrees in summer can be observed – and in about 23 degrees in the water.
Without a doubt, this does not mean that the temperature of the aquarium should be neglected. We’re just trying to show that, in fact, there are testimonies of people who kept their axolotls at temperatures of around 22-23 degrees for certain periods of time without serious complications.
Still, the tutor needs to be aware of the following clear signs of stress caused by very high water temperature:
- The animal rises to the surface to breathe too often.
- The gills retract.
The axolotl gets oxygen from the water through its external brachial tree, skin and lungs. Dissolved oxygen levels in water decrease with temperature. Therefore, in very hot water, the animal drowns – literally. For this reason, it is essential to be especially careful with the parameter we are dealing with here.
How to keep the axolotl aquarium cool
Since we’ve already shown the importance of water temperature for the care of this friendly animal, it’s time to present a series of tips to keep your aquarium cool. Come on.
The location of the aquarium
The location of the aquarium is a very important factor that must be taken into account. To avoid heat build-up as much as possible, the following tips should be considered:
- Place the aquarium close to the ground. Warm air rises, so you’ll always save a few tenths if you place the tank at ground level.
- Avoid exposure to light. Light is energy and, therefore, when it comes into contact with water, it heats it up. It is essential that, during hot weather, the aquarium stays away from windows. Also, do not turn on the aquarium light during the hottest hours of the day.
- Place the aquarium in the coldest room in the house. If you have a basement or one of the rooms communicating with an open, shady indoor space, you already know what to do.
- Open the window at night.
Specialized fans
There are several models of axolotl aquarium fans that can be found in pet stores at relatively affordable prices. It is possible to place as many as necessary, as they will move the water superficially and the animal, being at the bottom of the aquarium, will not even notice.
It is important to highlight that this cooling method promotes water evaporation. Take the opportunity to replace the evaporated fraction daily with water from the refrigerator or frozen, as long as it has been previously dechlorinated.
Cold bottles and ice cubes
Without a doubt, we are faced with the most famous and, unfortunately, the least effective method. Placing cold bottles in the aquarium should only be considered during heat waves or in urgent moments, as its effect is transitory. Despite this, placing a cold bottle in your pet’s aquarium will lower the temperature a few degrees for a while.
A cooler for aquariums
Definitely the best option. Aquarium coolers work perfectly to maintain the desired temperature, but they have a very important disadvantage: the price. Most of them are in the range of approximately 300 dollars. You need to empty your wallet.
A big effort for a big animal
As you’ve seen in these lines, maintaining the temperature of an axolotl’s aquarium when it’s 30 degrees outside is a big sacrifice. You’ll need control, patience and, above all, a large electrical outlet to plug in fans and coolers.
Still, the effort is worth it. The axolotl is one of the most fascinating animals to be found in the world of exotic pets and as such deserves all the care and attention it needs from its guardian.
