Axolotls require special care if you want them to live healthy and happy. One of the main things to help ensure your axolotl lives a healthy life is the water parameter.
It is important that axolotl owners keep their axolotl water clean to ensure your axolotl does not get stressed or get health problems.
You can use several filters to maintain your axolotl tank’s water quality. However, choosing a suitable filter for your axolotl is not quite easy due to several factors.
This is why we have helped research some of the best water filter for axolotl in the market that you can choose.
So, keep reading to learn about everything you need to know about axolotl filters, from the things to consider when choosing a water filter to the best filters out there.
Contents
- Why Does Axolotl Need a Water Filter?
- Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For in a Good Water Filter?
- 7 Best Water Filter for Axolotl and Their Reviews
- Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter for Large Aquariums and Fish Tanks from 30 to 200 Gallons
- Fluval 07 Series Performance Canister Filter for Aquariums
- Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter for Aquariums, Fast Maintenance
- SunSun HW-404B 525 GPH 5-Stage External Canister Filter with 9W UV Sterilizer
- Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister
- AquaClear, Fish Tank Filter
- Fluval C Series Power Filter, Clip-On Aquarium Filter
- How Often to Clean an Axolotl Filter?
- Final Verdict
Why Does Axolotl Need a Water Filter?
Generally, axolotls are messy creatures and usually scatter their poop all over the tank. So, they require a high quality of water for their biological processes.
Therefore, you will need a filter to ensure the water is of high quality for the well-being of your axolotl.
Without a filter, the water quality in their tank will become bad rapidly, and you will need to siphon clean their tank daily to keep it clean.
This can be quite tasking to axolotl owners and even stress your axolotl.
However, a filter helps remove harmful bacteria, chemicals, and ammonia from the water and keep the water fresh for a long period.
Also read: How To Clean Axolotl Poop: 3 Basic Ways
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For in a Good Water Filter?
Choosing a suitable filter for axolotls is usually different from a filter for fish or turtles. You will need to consider several things when it comes to choosing a suitable tank filter for your axolotl tank.
Some of the things that you can consider are stated below:
Size And Capacity
When choosing a filter, the first thing to consider is the size and capacity. It is recommended that you opt for a filter with a flow rate of around 5-6 times the tank’s total volume.
This will help ensure the filter can process high volumes of water without any issue.
Disperse The Water Flow Evenly and Gentle
Generally, axolotls are sensitive creatures and can easily be stressed due to the water flow in their tank.
This means you need to opt for a filter that does not produce a strong water flow. Many owners recommend that you opt for a filter with a spray bar to help ensure the water is dispersed evenly.
It is also best to determine whether an axolotl you are using is suitable for your axolotl by checking its water flow rate (gallons per hour).
Also read: Full Requirements & Water Conditions for Axolotl in Captivity
Powerful Biological Filtration (Filter Media)
Axolotls are very sensitive to ammonia and nitrites, and they can develop health problems if they are in their water.
Therefore, you will need a filter that can efficiently clean ammonia and harmful chemicals from their tank.
This means a suitable filter for your axolotl tank should help cleanse the tank effectively and create enough beneficial bacteria in their tank.
Easy to Clean and Operate
Since you will need to clean your filter after use, you can save yourself from stress by choosing a filter that is easy to remove from the tank and simple to clean.
Flexibility
Lots of filter brands use a specific media, which can make it expensive and even limit what you can use it for.
A suitable filter to consider should be flexible, and you can easily add your own or separate media to it.
Must Be Quiet
Another thing that you can consider when buying an axolotl filter is whether it works silently or not. If you prefer a filter with low noise levels, a canister filter is a suitable filter that you can buy.
7 Best Water Filter for Axolotl and Their Reviews
In this section, we will be reviewing seven (7) of the best water filters suitable for axolotl tanks while discussing their specific features and their capacity.
| Products | Capacity | Water Flow | Filter Media |
| Penn-Plax Cascade Canister filter | Up to 200 gallons | 115-350 GPH | Yes |
| Fluval 07 series canister filter | 20 gallons | 95 GPH | Yes |
| Marineland Magniflow canister filter | 30-100 gallons | 220-360 GPH | Yes |
| SunSun canister filter | Up to 150 gallons | 525 GPH | No |
| Polar aurora external aquarium filter | 75 gallons | 265 GPH | Yes |
| AquaClear fish tank filter | 20-110 gallons | 200 GPH | Yes |
| Fluval C series power filter | 10-50 gallons | 119-153 GPH | Yes |
Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter for Large Aquariums and Fish Tanks from 30 to 200 Gallons
The Penn-Plax Cascade canister filter is an overall pick for axolotl tank filters with versatile performance. This product is suitable for water movement and oxygenating your axolotl’s water.
Overview
- Includes a spray bar
- Has 2-5 large media baskets
- Extremely quiet
- Rotating valves
- Suitable for tanks around 200 gallons.
The Penn-Plax Cascade canister filter is a versatile aquarium filter suitable for your axolotl tank. It is ideal for a 200-gallon aquarium, and it is very easy to operate and extremely quiet.
This makes it a perfect filter even for beginners that have never used a filter before or have an aquarium.
The highlight of the Penn-Plax cascade canister filter is that it comes with a spray bar that helps to promote water movement and oxygenate the tank.
Furthermore, it has a rotating valve for controlling and adjusting the filter as you like.
Penn-Plax Cascade canister filter also includes 2-5 large media baskets based on the model.
Another thing is that the baskets have a handle, making their removal quite easy. It is also very easy to clean up as you can simply remove the flow valves instead of the whole filter.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Great value for money – It is very quiet. – It includes a spray bar – Very easy to operate and clean | – Too much water can flow through the side of the filter without getting filtered. |
- CASCADE 1500 CANISTER FILTER: Without effort, the Cascade 1500 Canister Filter quietly delivers crystal clear water throughout the tank. This filter cycles water at 350 Gallons per Hour, and is recommended for aquariums up to 200 gallons. It’s compatible for both freshwater and saltwater fish tanks, and is also great for turtle habitats!
- STATE OF THE ART FEATURES: In addition to the push button primer that allows for a simple and quick prime, this Canister Filter also features two independent valve taps that rotate 360°. This makes for easy maneuvering, even in the tightest aquarium cabinets! The 5 stackable, large capacity media baskets give aquarists the ability to customize filtration.
- FILTER MEDIA: This Canister Filter comes standard with 5 Poly Fiber Floss Pads, 1 Coarse Bio-Sponge, and 1 Bag of Activated Carbon. In addition to optimizing the colonization of anaerobic bacteria, this filter traps floating particulate matter, removes harmful chemicals and toxins, clears up discolorations, and reduces foul odors from your aquarium’s water.
- ITEMS INCLUDED: 2 Independent Valve Taps, Push Button Primer, Flow Rate Control Cut-Off Valves, Swimming-Pool Style Hose Clamps, 4 Easy Lift Alignment Clamps, Sturdy Tip-Proof Base, 5 Large Capacity Media Baskets, 5 Poly Fiber Floss Pads, 1 Coarse Bio-Sponge, and 1 Bag of Activated Carbon.
- MEASUREMENTS AND OTHER USEFUL INFO: The Cascade 1500 Canister Filter measures 11.5” (W) x 12” (D) x 20.5” (H). Additional Info = 110 Volts / 60 Hz / 45.5 W.
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fluval 07 Series Performance Canister Filter for Aquariums
Fluval 07 series canister filter is a high-quality and energy-efficient filter offering powerful and efficient water filtration for your axolotl tank.
Overview
- Energy efficient
- Ergonomic design
- Operates silently
- Available in four sizes
- Offers continuous powerful water flow
Fluval 07 series canister filter is suitable for your axolotl tank as it offers several unique features.
This filter provides a powerful and reliable aquatic filtration and works very quietly. To ensure your axolotl tank is always clean, you can use the filter for mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.
A great thing about the Fluval 07 series canister filter is that it is energy efficient.
Although they can generate from 145-383 gallons per hour of constant water, they consume as little as 10 watts of energy. Another thing is that it is available in four sizes, making it suitable for several tank sizes.
The highlight of the Fluval 07 series canister filter is that it uses all its canister volume available.
It also has an ergonomic design, making it quite easy to maintain. This makes it a perfect filter for a beginner hobbyist as it is easy to use.
The only drawback is that it does not include a spray bar, and you will need to buy one separately.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Energy efficient – Easy to clean – Requires minimal maintenance – Suitable for mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration. – Operates quietly. – It does not take up much space | – You will need to buy a separate spray bar – There are reports that it leaks. – Requires effort to set up. |
- Fluval eTEC (Efficient Technology) construction employs cutting-edge design, materials & manufacturing methods to deliver powerful pump performance, reduced energy consumption and ultra-quiet operation
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Marineland Magniflow Canister Filter for Aquariums, Fast Maintenance
Marineland Magniflow canister filter is a reliable and powerful filter offering multistage filtrations, and it is also suitable for both fresh and saltwater.
Overview
- Offers multistage filtration system
- Available in three sizes
- Includes a watertight seal that is easily detachable
- Fast prime button
- Includes filter media
Marineland Magniflow canister filter is a reliable and powerful axolotl filter. This filter is very versatile, and you can use it for both salt and freshwater aquariums.
It features a multistage filtration (mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration layer) to ensure that you get the purest and cleanest water possible for your axolotl.
Furthermore, Marineland magniflow canister filter is very easy to maintain and use.
It features a watertight canister lid that you can easily remove. It also includes a valve block for quick release to help in stopping water flow.
You can easily clean the canister by taking off the lid. The great thing is that this filter comes with a quick prime button to help fill the filter chamber with water automatically.
Marineland magniflow canister filter is available in three different sizes, making it suitable for several tanks.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Leakproof – Easy to set up – Offers multistage filtration – Easy to clean – Works quietly | – It does not include a spray bar – May trap air bubbles which may affect its function – It is hard to install – It is not an easy device to maintain. |
- 3-STAGE FILTRATION: Water flows through media layers to filter water and ensure a clean aquatic environment.
- VERSATILE: For freshwater and saltwater aquariums.
- FAST SETUP: Water-tight canister lid lifts up for easy removal.
- EASY MAINTENANCE: Valve block for quick release to shut down water flow – separates from housing for quick, spill-free maintenance.
- MARINELAND FILTRATION PRODUCTS: Count on Marineland brand for the most reliable, technically advanced aquariums and accessories on the market.
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SunSun HW-404B 525 GPH 5-Stage External Canister Filter with 9W UV Sterilizer
SunSun external canister filter is suitable for axolotls’ owners seeking an optimum filter to keep the aquarium pure and clean.
SunSun HW-404B 525 GPH 5-Stage External Canister Filter with 9W UV Sterilizer, White
- Good for up to 150 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 11" L x 11" W x 19" H
- Flow rate: 525 GPH (2000L/hr)
- Pump power: 55W
- Built in 9 watt UV sterilizer for controlling algae spores/bacteria and promoting clear water
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Overview
- Spray bar included
- Multiple stage filtration
- Large media baskets
- UV sterilizer
SunSun external canister filter is among the optimum filters suitable for axolotls.
A great thing about this product is that you can easily control its filtering techniques in any way you like.
It features multiple stages of filtration, which helps to ensure your axolotl’s water is as clean and pure as possible.
SunSun external canister filter also includes large media baskets that you can fill with the type of media you want.
Furthermore, it is equipped with a 9-watt UV sterilizer to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria that can harm your axolotl.
A great thing about the SunSun external canister filter is that you can easily lift and remove each media basket from the filter for cleaning.
It is also very easy to set up. SunSun external canister filter also has an outlet tube fitted with a spray bar to help disperse water flow evenly and keep your axolotl tank oxygenated.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Suitable for large tanks – Multiple stages of filtration – Presence of UV sterilizer to remove algae and bacteria – Spray bay is included | – The instruction manual is not very clear. – Many users reported that it leaks – It makes noise |
- Good for up to 150 gallon fish tanks
- Dimension: 11" L x 11" W x 19" H
- Flow rate: 525 GPH (2000L/hr)
- Pump power: 55W
- Built in 9 watt UV sterilizer for controlling algae spores/bacteria and promoting clear water
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Polar Aurora 3-Stage External Aquarium Filter 265gph with Builtin Pump Kit Canister
Polar Aurora 3-stage external aquarium filter is an all-inclusive filter with both spray bar and actual filter media. It also has a flexible filter that helps axolotl owners to use their media.
Overview
- Includes spray bar
- Convenient self-priming pump
- Includes three media trays
- Includes filter media
- Features stable-height inlet tube
- Fast flow rate
Polar Aurora 3-stage external aquarium filter is an all-inclusive filter suitable for axolotl tank.
The filter comes with an easy-to-use self-priming pump that you can operate with a button. It also includes three media trays that help to ensure the water is filtered thoroughly.
It also comes with various filter media, meaning you will get mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration at once.
The Polar Aurora filter also includes an adjustable spray bar to help disperse the water flow.
The great thing is that this filter is extremely quiet, and the largest model can be used for tanks around 200 gallons large. The main drawback is that it is not quite easy to put it together.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Operates silently – It allows you to use your media – Easy to clean – Includes spray bar – Includes filter media – It offers everything you need in a filter | – It is quite hard to set up – Many users reported leaks |
- 3 media trays capable of handling your choice of filtration media; Comes with an adjustable spray bar. This is a helpful feature if you want to adjust the output flow from the filter. No Light in the package!
- This Aquarium Filter is good for up to 75 gallon fish tanks, can be applied Flow rate: 264 GPH (1000L/hr) Pump Power: 18W Hose size: 3/4" Max-H: 4.6 feet.
- Canister filters for aquariums use high water pressure, from a properly powered pump, to force water through the dense filter media. A pump can draw water from an under-gravel filter, and run it into a canister for double filtration.
- Convenient self-priming pump that eliminates the need for manual siphoning; Single valve disconnect & priming pump ease routine maintenance.
- The 3 flexible media trays allow you to add other filtration media to achieve excellent mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
AquaClear, Fish Tank Filter
The AquaClear fish tank filter is the best budget-friendly hang-on back water filter suitable for your axolotl tank.
Overview
- Patented refiltration system
- Quick and easy to install
- Power filter maintenance
- Multistage filtration system
- Suitable for 20–50-gallon tank.
The aquaclear fish tank filter is an effective, budget-friendly filter on this list. It belongs to the hang-on-back filter category. This means all you must do is hang it outside of your aquarium.
It is suitable for beginner hobbyists as it is very easy to use and does not require much maintenance like the other filters listed before.
It has a lifetime warranty which helps to put your mind at peace. It also has multistage filtration.
You will love the filter as it offers superior contact time with the filter media.
The filter is also energy efficient, which will help you to reduce operating costs. This filter offers great options of flow rates suitable for the most popular aquarium sizes.
With AquaClear’s patented refiltration system, you can easily control the water flow rate in their aquarium without affecting the filtration efficiency.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Adjustable flow rates – Easy to use – Offers multistage filtration. – Lifetime warranty – Easy to clean – Suitable for beginners | – It makes lots of grinding noise when working. – Requires regular maintenance – Not very powerful for larger tanks |
- Aquarium filtration system that offers superior contact time with filter media and energy efficient pump lowers operating costs
- Quick and easy installation; we recommend that you clean aquarium filter every 2 weeks for maximum operation and efficiency
- Provides optimal mechanical; chemical; and biological filtration
- Comes equipped with AquaClear Foam; Activated Carbon Filter and BioMax and Cycle Guard for superior water quality
- Filtration volume is up to 7 times larger than comparable fish tank filters
Last update on 2022-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fluval C Series Power Filter, Clip-On Aquarium Filter
Fluval C series power filter is a suitable filter that axolotl owners can use to ensure optimal water quality for your axolotl.
Overview
- Patented refiltration system for controlling water flow
- Biological trickle chamber
- Multiple-stage clip-on power filter
- Available in three different sizes
- Telescopic intake tube
Fluval C series power filter has a versatile design and a suitable filter for axolotl’s tank.
The filter offers a multistage filtration system (mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration) that helps ensure optimal water quality in your axolotl tank.
Fluval C power filter also features a patented refiltration system as the water passes through the filter multiple times to ensure high-quality water.
It also features an adjustable flow button to adjust the water flow rate to your axolotl’s desired level.
Fluval C power filter has a telescopic intake tube suitable for several water parameters and aquarium depths.
The filter is available in three different sizes, making it suitable for different aquariums. It is also easy to set up and maintain the filter.
You can also detach all the filter sections for cleaning with relative ease.
| Pros | Cons |
| – Very easy to set up and maintain – Has great suction power – Offers multiple stage filtration system to allow high-quality water – Requires low maintenance – Easy to clean – Has great suction power | – It can be noisy – You will need to replace the foam pads every 4-6 weeks – It can be hard to clean the crevices of the impeller. |
- 5-stage clip-on power filter designed for freshwater and saltwater aquariums between 40 and 70 gallons
- Two mechanical stages trap large and fine debris, foams easily slide out for quick cleaning
- Chemical stage with activated carbon effectively removes toxins
- Biological stage features Bio-Screen pad, blocks debris and provides massive surface area for beneficial biological activity
- Biological Trickle Chamber super charged for fast and efficient nitrification when loaded with Fluval C-Nodes
Last update on 2022-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How Often to Clean an Axolotl Filter?
Cleaning an axolotl filter depends on your tank setup and the size of your tank. However, the recommended period to clean an axolotl filter is 4-6 weeks.
You may need to clean a single sponge filter in your tank once every week.
However, you will need to clean more than one sponge filter in an average-sized tank once every month if it does not get too dirty.
You will need to clean a mechanical filter more often than a biological and chemical filter.
This is because mechanical filters trap more solid debris in the tank and easily get clogged.
You can clean the mechanical filter once every month, while you can wait a little while before cleaning chemical and biological filters.
You should clean biological filters only when you see that it is visibly clogged to help ensure the beneficial bacteria is intact. And when you want to rinse it, you can dip it in aquarium water in a clean bucket.
Final Verdict
Axolotls require a clean environment to stay healthy, and it is important to have a good filtration system in their tank.
Therefore, you will need a powerful filter to help ensure their tank is always clean if you want them to live long.
We recommend choosing the Penn-Plax Cascade Canister filter as it is very versatile and easy to use.
Another great option is the Fluval 07 series canister filter, as it offers a powerful and efficient water filtration for your axolotl tank while saving energy.
However, you can opt for the Aquaclear Fish tank filter if you are on a budget.