UniquePetsWiki is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read more

Do Axolotls Need an Air Pump?

The axolotl does not need the air pump to survive. An adequate filtration mechanism in the tank will keep oxygen levels stable.

Obviously, some individuals who seek this issue are worried about their axolotl pets and need to learn more about how to properly care for them.

However, after reading this article, individuals will learn how to properly care for their axolotl pet and get new knowledge and insights.

Do Axolotls Need an Air Pump?

It is not essential to buy an air pump or an air bubbler. Because filter will provide an adequate supply of oxygen for the tank and the axolotls that dwell in it.

The fact that they swim to the surface is not an issue at all, because they have lungs to allow get oxygen.

An air pump is optional, especially once your axolotl is an adult. However, it is a great option to give young axolotl. Because they need more oxygen.

In particular, if you see them gasping for air often or no other device is used in the tank as a filter or bubbler, you can add an air pump.

But it should be noted that the air pump creates too much flow. Therefore, stressing out your axies and causing illness.

Choose a low-flow air pump and watch for signs of stress in the axolotl. If necessary, you can remove it.

axolotl is lying in a tank full of oxygen balls
Axolotl is lying in a tank full of oxygen balls

Benefits and Risks When Using Air Pump

Without an air pump, an aquarium may remain healthy.

However, the major reason for investing in an aquarium air pump is to provide an increased oxygen exchange in the tank for the purpose of maintaining the required oxygen level in the tank.

Additionally, ornamental objects and plants may be placed around the air pump to help maintain the appropriate oxygen level.

The entire appearance of the fish tank may be improved as a result of doing so.

Another benefit of using an air pump is improving the quality of the water in their tank which helps them grow healthier and much happier in their tanks.

Additionally, having an air pump helps with evaporation in return helps with cooling down the water inside the tank.

But there is a danger of utilizing an air pump include having an air pump is having too many bubbles causing stress to axolotls. It can also contribute to sickness of the axolotls. 

Another risk associated with having an air pump is using it can change the water flow to a larger water flow. This can again cause stress for your axolotls since your axolotl likes calm and gentle water.

Axolotls may also show indications of stress, such as white spots, fungus, a lack of appetite, and a curled tail tip, among others. 

axolotl is living in a tank full of equipment
Axolotl is living in a tank full of equipment

Best Air Pump for Axolotl Tank

The Tetra Whisper Aquarium Air Pumps are strong and reliable.

Whisper Air Pumps are available in a variety of sizes to meet the aeration requirements of aquariums ranging in size from 10 gallons to 100 gallons.

Tetra Whisper 10 Air Pump (non-UL) for 10 gallon tanks. Quiet, smooth airflow is achieved by the Whisper Air Pump’s unique dome shape and sound-absorbing chambers.

Its large size, rubber feet, and hanging pump motor reduce noise.

Tetra Whisper 40 Air Pump (non-UL) for 20-40 gallon tanks. Quiet, smooth airflow is achieved by the Whisper Air Pump’s unique dome shape and sound-absorbing chambers.

Its large size, rubber feet, and hanging pump motor reduce noise.

Tetra Whisper Easy to Use Air Pump for Aquariums

Sale
Tetra Whisper Easy to Use Air Pump for Aquariums (Non-UL)
  • POWERFUL Tetra Whisper Air Pump provides dependable airflow to your aquarium
  • QUIET Patented dome shape suspended motor and sound-dampening chambers for quiet operation
  • AVAILABLE SIZES Select the proper size for your tank – 10 20 and 40-gallon pumps have single air outlets 60 and 100-gallon pumps feature dual outlets
  • NON-UL LISTED Reliable performance at an economical cost
  • Age Range Description: All Life Stages

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

Air Pump Alternatives To Increase Oxygen Production

Alternatives to an air pump to increase oxygen production in an axolotl tank include live plants, increasing clean water, removing uneaten food and axolotl stool, and doing some water changes.

Live plants naturally increase oxygen in a tank so if you don’t have an air pump, a very good solution is using live plants.

You could also try to increase clean water by adding in new water with the correct pH level and acidity.

Always remember to remove uneaten food and axolotl stool from the tank whenever you see them, as this can foul and increase the acidity level in the water tank of axolotls causing them to be stressed or sick.

Lastly, doing some water changes such as cleaning the tank is also beneficial and could substitute for an air pump as long as you clean the axolotl tank every 2 weeks and replace the water with new water with the correct pH level of 7.4-7.6.

What Do Axolotls Need In Their Tank?

Axolotls, which live in aquariums, like cool or room-temperature water and minimum lighting.

People may enjoy small parties as long as each individual brings at least 10 liters of water with them.

Axolotl care requires a detailed grasp of tank maintenance, cycles, and water conditions.

Keeping an axolotl might be difficult for those who aren’t familiar with aquarium maintenance and water cycling.

It should be easy for anybody with knowledge of the nitrogen cycle to care for these fish.

Additionally, weekly 30 per cent water changes and a robust aquarium pump with an output-reducing spray bar are essential.

It is essential to have a freshwater testing kit that measures water pH and other factors

60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for water temperature. Cool rooms away from direct sunlight or air vents are ideal for keeping tanks.

As a last resort, a water-cooling system might be utilized if the ambient temperature is not low enough.

Also read: 6 Best Axolotl Accessories

Aquarium Chiller

Aquarium Chiller, Fish Tank Cooling Fan System for Salt Fresh Water, 2 Variable Speed, Wide Angle Adjustable (2-Fan)
  • For aquarium wall (or width of the lip around the top edge) LESS THAN 1/2"
  • Reduce water temperature and drop up to 2 ~ 4℃
  • Offer a couple degrees cooling to offset lights and UV filter
  • 2 variable speed, wide angle adjustment, stable and strong clamp
  • Easy installation & No assembly required (AC adapter included)

Last update on 2022-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In Conclusion

There are several benefits to using an air pump such as improving the quality of the water in the tank, increasing the oxygen exchange so it improves the oxygen level of the water, and helps with water evaporation which in return helps with cooling the water temperature.

But some risks are also associated such as air bubbles and the stream water or air that the pump will cause stress for the axolotls, and another risk is it might change the water flow, causing again stress.

If you’re unsure to get one there are plenty of substitutions and things that you can do such as adding live plants to the tank, increasing clean water and doing some water changes, and removing uneaten food and axolotl stool.

We hope that the information you have found in this article has been helpful for you in your search and research about air pumps for axoltols.

About UniquePetsWiki

UniquePetsWiki is the preferred educational source on pets favored by experienced herptologists and new owners alike. With hundreds of articles on everything pertaining to pets including reptiles, squirrels, and other pets, our experienced team provides reliable and accurate content you can trust.

From proper husbandry and habitat guidance, to articles on health concerns, diet, and extensive care guides, UniquePetsWiki is here to educate everyone on all pets concerns.

Disclaimer

UniquePetsWiki is not a veterinary website, nor should any of the reptile health information on our site replace the advice of a certified veterinary professional. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact an experienced veterinarian immediately.

UniquePetsWiki is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.