What to do if my axolotl's aquarium tank filter flow is too strong?

If you can adjust the filter flow, it should be fine if you turn it down. If not, you may need to use something to redirect the outflow to decrease current strength. You can use a piece of sponge or pre-filter in the intake to prevent a small fish from being drawn into the filter. Although live food is nice, it can be difficult or time consuming. Live food can be purchased online and typically includes instructions on care and feeding. Food companies all offer "micro-pellets" for smaller fish which is also an option.

Thanks for reaching out about Cherub and including a picture. Amphibians are delicate animals and water quality is very important. Testing the wear quality regularly (at least once daily) for pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate are a must. Any abnormalities need to be addressed as soon as possible. Water also must be kept cool and stable. Amphibians do not do well with temperature changes. A varied insect diet also is important. Live insects, kept in good condition, will provide a wide variety of vitamins and mineral, protein and fat. Read up on what you need to do and b proactive with problems.

Check the water quality and temperature. Perform partial water changes every few days to maintain pristine water quality. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Clean water is the foundation for healing and recovery. If there is no change, consider an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating axolotls. They can be sensitive to medications, so a doctor's advice after an exam would be safest.

I really think you need to go with the recommended temperatures. Temperatures that are too high (over 74F) are associated with heat stress and death in these guys. An ideal temperature range is the low to mid 60s. An aquarium chiller is recommended if you cannot get the temperature low enough. I suggest you refer to this article: ( http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Frogs-Amphibians/Axolotl/ )

Treating him yourself would not be recommended as you may cause injury. If the rock was small, he may eventually pass it. Maintain pristine water quality and proper temp. Monitor his appetite and stool output. If there is a veterinarian nearby with experience treating axolotls, then an exam would be strongly recommended in case surgery is required to remove the rock. Fridging Nox may also be recommended. You can read more about the process at the link below. https://www.caudata.org/axolotl-sanctuary/Fridging.shtml

Yes, you can rinse filter media (the sponge) using tank water. This will preserve beneficial bacterial populations in the sponge. The plastic filter parts can be rinsed and scrubbed using tap water. Perform a partial water change, no more than 30% total volume, using conditioned water that is temperature matched. To limit algae overgrowth, do not overfeed, limit lighting to 8-10 hours daily and monitor water temp. If possible, turn up filter flow to get the water moving. Algae thrives in slow moving water. Do this only if your fish are not affected by stronger currents.

A combination of salt baths and fridging may ease symptoms. If liver failure has been diagnosed, this is usually a terminal illness. Recommended salt concentration is 2-3 teaspoons of aquarium salt per liter of dechlorinated water. Baths should be 10-15 minutes duration. Fridging can be done in conjunction to reduce stress and aid in recovery. There is a guide to fridging at the link below. http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/85263-axolotl-fridging-guide.html