Water chemistry is the single most important factor in long-term axolotl health. Most axolotl losses are not caused by genetics, feeding, or disease – but by unstable or inappropriate water conditions.
Axolotls absorb dissolved substances directly through their skin and gills. This makes them exceptionally sensitive to nitrogen compounds, pH swings, and dissolved contaminants.
Target Water Parameters
These values are not suggestions. They are functional requirements.
- Temperature: 60–64°F (15–18°C)
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm (lower is better)
- pH: 6.8–7.6 (stable is more important than exact)
- Hardness: Moderate (avoid very soft water)
Any deviation – especially over time – creates chronic stress.
The Nitrogen Cycle (Why Tanks Must Be Cycled)
Axolotls produce waste continuously. In an uncycled tank, this waste converts to toxic ammonia.
A properly cycled aquarium uses beneficial bacteria to convert:
- Ammonia → Nitrite → Nitrate
Axolotls cannot be placed into an uncycled system without risking severe injury or death.
Testing and Monitoring
- Test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH weekly
- Test immediately if:
- Appetite changes
- Gills curl forward
- Activity level drops
Liquid test kits (such as API Freshwater Master Test) are strongly recommended. Test strips lack precision.
Water Changes
- Perform 20–30% weekly water changes
- Always:
- Dechlorinate replacement water using a product like Seachem Axolotl Conditioner
- Match temperature closely
- Ensure that pH is correct by using a product like Seachem Axolotl Buffer
- Avoid large, sudden changes of any other parameter
Large or irregular water changes destabilize chemistry and stress the animal.
Common Mistakes
- Cycling with the axolotl already in the tank
- Ignoring nitrate buildup
- Chasing pH with chemicals
- Using untreated tap water
Water stability matters more than chasing “perfect” numbers.