Axolotls, like other water creatures, prefer to live in ideal water conditions. Their history and development as a species dictates them to seek areas where the water temperatures will be between 10-20 degrees Celsius (50-70 degrees Fahrenheit). Although many owners still mistake axolotls for being tropical creatures. This is precisely what makes them slightly demanding for beginners.
One of the most important things is to try and keep the balance between good water quality and the right water parameters. And that is not an easy job for someone who has little to no experience in dealing with aquariums. Also, axolotls can be quite demanding in terms of water quality, and they tend to require a good filtration system and regular maintenance.
But what are the best water temperatures for axolotls? The ideal water temperature for axolotls range between 16-18 degrees Celsius (60-64 degrees Fahrenheit), although they can adapt to various conditions.
They will survive in water temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). The upper-most limit for water temperatures is 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit.)
Ideal Water Temperature for Axolotls
The ideal temperature for axolotls is between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius (60-64 degrees Fahrenheit.) The key to longevity and long-term happiness of axolotls is keeping the water temperature within these ideal levels.
And that is easier said than done. Several factors can impact the temperatures, and it can be especially difficult during hot days. If you live in a warmer climate where the temperatures are above 22 degrees Celsius constantly throughout the year, then an aquarium chiller is a must.
It is better to buy a high-quality chiller and depend on it rather than on other, more unpredictable, ways of keeping the temperature in check. Even if the temperatures do go high, which is inevitable, the chiller will work overtime to ensure the water stays cool enough.
Although these are ideal temperatures, axolotls can survive a large variety of water conditions. But keeping the temperature within the ideal levels will go a long way for preventing diseases and keeping the stress levels in check.
Minimum Water Temperature for Axolotls
The absolute minimum water temperature that axolotls will survive in is 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit.)
Although such temperatures are far from ideal; luckily, there is a lower chance of it happening, as most axolotl owners prefer to keep their tanks in rooms, where the temperatures are higher. But if the water does drop to those levels, then it might be wise to get a heater, but those are very rare cases.
These temperatures are far more likely to occur in the wild, in axolotls’ natural habitat. They have adapted and have a relatively thick skin. If the water temperatures are too low, these animals will be more prone to higher stress levels and consequent diseases. You might also see them shed their slime coat.
It is crucial to not let the temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius on the long-term, although this is far less likely to happen in households where temperatures rarely drop to those levels.
Maximum Water Temperature for Axolotls
On the other side of the spectrum, the maximum temperature that axolotls can withstand is 22 degrees Celsius (72 degrees Fahrenheit.) This scenario is more likely to happen in households, especially during the summer and autumn.
Once the temperature exceeds the threshold, axolotls will struggle to live normally. Their stress levels will shoot up, they will likely get various diseases, and in the long run, it can cause death. So, you can see why it is important to keep the temperatures in check and why axolotls are not recommended for beginners.
Luckily, there are several things we can do to constantly reduce the water temperature to ideal levels. The best solution is a chiller, however, not everyone can afford one. Other things we can do are to keep the tank out of the sunlight, away from the heater or a light source, and near the bottom of the room (near the floor). In some cases, keeping the lid open is not a bad idea, either.
In any case, high temperatures can have detrimental effects on your axolotls. Trying to keep the temperatures below 20 degrees Celsius on the long-term is the best way to avoid them.
Do Axolotls Need a Heater?
No, axolotls don’t need a heater, as water temperatures will very rarely dip below the 10-degree Celsius mark. That is because axolotl tanks are kept in rooms with warmer temperatures, and it is quite uncommon to have these temperatures.
What is more, axolotls will require a chiller rather than a heater to keep the temperatures lower. There will most probably be enough natural sources of heat, so a heater is not required.
It can be sunlight, or the room temperature, or a lighting source that can increase the temperatures.
How to Keep Axolotl Aquarium Water Cool?
There are various things you can do to keep the temperature in check.
- An aquarium chiller is possibly the easiest and most effective way of keeping the water cool. Although it does come with a cost, you will be sure about the temperatures at all times. You can set your desired temperatures, meaning that you won’t have to worry about them.
- Keep the tank away from the sunlight. It can encourage higher water temperatures and can promote the growth of algae; both are undesirable.
- The tank should be kept away from a heating or lighting source. Another two possible sources of heat, and you should try to keep the tank as far away as possible.
- Keep the lid open. If you do have one, of course. Keeping it open can encourage evaporation, and with it, the heat will escape and the water will cool down.
- Consider having a tank near or on the floor. That’s because cooler air tends to circulate near the room floor.
Conclusion
The ideal water temperatures for axolotls are between 16 and 18 degrees Celsius (60-64 degrees Fahrenheit.) The key to improving the life of your axolotls is to try and keep the temperature within these levels.
