Do Axolotls Need A Bubbler?

Many axolotl owners are confused about whether their pet’s tank needs a bubbler. Axies breathe through their gills and bubblers help increase the oxygen concentration in the tank. This can be beneficial for your pet.

However, not all Axies are comfortable with a bubbler and some even get upset when you start using one. So, in this guide, we will tell you exactly when to use a bubbler. We will also cover the benefits and risks of bubblers.

Let us dive straight into it.

Do Axolotls Need A Bubbler?

Bubblers can help Axolotls breathe better and could prevent them from feeling suffocated. They are a useful addition to tanks that do not have live plants. Of course, you can always use a reliable filter instead of a bubbler.

However, many Axies love bubblers and even play with the bubbles. Some Axies, on the other hand, dislike them, and may even stop eating if you add one in the tank.

Bottom line: whether or not an axolotl will do well with a bubbler entirely depends on the individual Axie.

Let us cover some benefits and risks of using bubblers in axolotl tanks so you can decide whether your pet needs one.

Benefits of Using Bubbler in Axolotl Tank

Your axolotls could benefit in many ways due to the use of bubblers in their tanks.

• They increase oxygen exchange – Also known as air stones, aquarium bubblers consist of an air pump that blows bubbles via flexible tubing. These bubbles increase the oxygen in the water. Oxygen can help your pet breathe better.
• They increase the rate of water evaporation – Increased aeration increases the water’s evaporation rate. This, in turn, reduces the water’s temperature and axolotls prefer cold water better than warm water.
• They prevent biofilm formation- Biofilm is the slimy layer of mold and bacteria that gets formed on tank surfaces. It occurs when microbes have the opportunity to easily adhere to those surfaces. With bubblers, you can prevent biofilm formation as the bubbles continuously keep the water moving.

Also read: How To Keep An Axolotl Tank Cold

Risks of Using Bubbler in Axolotl Tank

There are also certain risks associated with the use of bubblers in axolotl tanks:

• Stress – Some Axies do not like bubblers as they are known to get stressed out due to their presence. Many aquarium bubblers are very noisy and often cause the tank to vibrate. This could frighten some Axies.
• They feel crowded – Bulky tank bubblers often cramp up the space and this can be detrimental to an Axie’s health. Many Axies are known to stop eating after the introduction of bubblers in their tanks.

Also read: 10 Axolotl Stress Signs

Good Bubblers for Axolotl Tank 

As you can see, the benefits of bubblers far outweigh the risks associated with them. So, if you have decided to add a bubbler to your pet’s tank, it could be a wise decision. However, you must make sure that you select one that is safe and won’t harm your Axies in any way.

We recommend the following bubblers as they have a silent operation and are completely safe for your pets. Moreover, they also come with a return/replacement guarantee in case you are not satisfied with the purchase or if the bubbler stresses your Axie.

PULACO Ultra Quiet Aquarium Air Pump Dual Outlet

Features

• No oil pollution – Provides fresh, clean air
• Silent operation
• Dual output – you can use it in two tanks simultaneously
• High efficiency, low power consumption

UPETTOOLS Aquarium Air Pump Ultra Silent High Energy Saving Oxygen Fish

Features

• Ultra silent operation of less than 35 dB
• Space-saving, compact design
• Stable performance

HITOP Dual Outlet Aquarium Pump

Features

• Two outlets
• Long service life
• Ultra silent operation

What Do Axolotls Need in Their Tank?

In addition to a high-quality diet, your axolotl needs a good tank with several accessories to keep them thriving

Here are some must-haves for Axies’ tanks:

Tank size

First of all, ensure that the tank is of the optimum size for your pet to thrive. If you keep a single Axie, then a 10-gallon tank is ideal. However, larger tanks are always better so you may go up to 20-gallons.

Water

Although Axies hail from a warm place like Mexico, they prefer cool water. The optimum water temperature should be between 16 and 17 F. It should also have a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It is also recommended to use slightly hard water for Axies.

Also read: Axolotl Temperature (Tips to Maintain an Ideal Temperature)

Substrate

Axies love spending time at the bottom of the tank, so pay attention to the substrate you use. You can add sand to the tank.

Avoid gravel-based substrates as it can be harmful to your pet if swallowed. If you choose gravel, make sure it is large and not easy for your Axie to swallow.

Hiding Areas

Add plenty of rocks, PVC pipes, and ceramic shelters for your Axies to hide. They are nocturnal creatures and dislike bright lights.

A Reliable Filter

This is an optional accessory. However, Axies produce a lot of waste so a filter that cycles out water can help. If you choose not to use a filter, make sure to at least change the water 1-3 times a week.

(Even if you use a filter, you must perform regular water changes to keep the tank water fresh).

Lid to Secure the Tank

Make sure that the axolotl tank is covered with a lid that can be further secured with a lock. Axies are notorious for jumping out of their tanks and a lid can prevent them from escaping.

PULACO Ultra Quiet Aquarium Air Pump Dual Outlet

Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Conclusion – Do Axolotls Need a Bubbler?

Most axolotls love bubblers and they even play with their bubbles. Bubbles also improve the tank’s oxygenation and prevent biofilm formation.

Always take your pet’s preferences into account. If it appears stressed or stops eating after you’ve added one, then discontinue using the bubbler right away.