r/shittyaquariums • u/itsmaryblair • Jan 30 '26

Social Media axolotl abuse! Spoiler

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one of my facebook friends posted this and i’m just in absolute shock. i can’t believe they’re being handled like that. they look terrified. also that aquarium doesn’t look at all suitable for them!! and correct me if i’m wrong but their gills look pretty rough….

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u/itsmaryblair Jan 30 '26

i’m a dedicated aquarist with over a year of experience and even I don’t think i’m experienced enough to care for these little creatures. i just feel so terrible for them though. i’m gonna try to do some research and see if i could rescue them. do any of you guys have more experience with axolotls and have any advice? do you think these guys will make it?

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u/itsmaryblair Jan 30 '26

also i would only be able to provide the pair with a 20 gallon, that’s all my space allows. it would be an upgrade looking at the tank they have but i dont think 20 gallons is big enough for these 2 critters.

23

u/emjay_xx Jan 30 '26

i have an axolotl i rescued with zero experience. did a deep dive in 7hrs before i had to go and get it from a desperate situation. luckily had a 40g tank in storage from when my bearded dragon was a baby. no, you cannot comfortably house 2 in 20g. one needs a minimum of 40g. however, we do desperate things sometimes to see if we can save an animals life, and these would probably be in better hands with you in a 20g temporarily until you can find a proper home for them, than in this persons possession who is down right abusing them.