How to Tub an Axolotl

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Important

• Always keep the tub in a safe location away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Never place an axolotl in untreated tap water, and always make sure any container used for tubbing is clean and free from soap or chemical residue.

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Tubbing Your Axolotl

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Tubbing is a simple way to temporarily house an axolotl

outside of its aquarium. It can be useful while cycling a

tank, during certain treatments, or anytime an axolotl needs

to be temporarily removed from its main tank.

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What You’ll Need:

• A clean plastic tub, such as a Sterilite shoebox-size container

• Fresh, cool water

• Seachem Prime or another appropriate water conditioner

• OR bottled spring water

• A turkey baster for removing waste

• An extra tub is helpful for easy daily water changes

 

Do not use purified or distilled bottled water.

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Setting Up the Tub:

• Fill the clean tub with enough cool water for your axolotl to remain completely submerged and move around comfortably.

• If using tap water, treat the water with the appropriate amount of Seachem Prime before placing your axolotl in it.

• Bottled spring water may also be used. Avoid purified or distilled water.

• Gently transfer your axolotl into the prepared tub.

 

Daily Water Changes:

• When an axolotl is being tubbed, the tub does not have an established biological cycle to process waste, because of this, the water needs to be replaced regularly.

• Perform a 100% water change every 24 hours using fresh, temperature-appropriate water.

• Remove any poop, uneaten food, or visible waste with a turkey baster as needed between water changes. Having two tubs makes this easier.

 

Prepare the clean tub with fresh water first, transfer your axolotl, and then clean the used tub so it is ready for the next change.

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Does My Axolotl Need a Hide?

• A hide is not required for temporary tubbing.

• Keeping the setup simple also makes it easier to keep the tub clean and monitor your axolotl.

 

Does the Tub Need a Lid?

• A lid is generally not necessary unless there are children, pets, or another reason the tub needs to be covered for safety.

• If you do use a lid, make sure it has air holes for ventilation.